Southern Georgia Black Chambers partner with Small Business Association to help Helene victims

VALDOSTA, Ga. (WALB) – The Southern Georgia Black Chambers (SGBC) is stepping in to assist local and surrounding area residents and businesses impacted by Hurricane Helene.

According to the release, “The Train the Trainer” program was led by SBA Public Affairs Specialist Lee Hill equipping them with “the knowledge and resources to guide community members through the SBA Disaster Loan application process.” This program was completed by key members.

“Our underserved and under-represented communities are our priority due to persistent and historical knowledge gaps related to SBA resources. We are committed to ensuring our communities are empowered to rebuild stronger than ever after Hurricane Helene and going forward,” says DeWayne Johnson, President/CEO and Founder of SGBC. “This training event has provided us with the tools to help residents and business owners who are under-represented access crucial financial resources.”

The SGBC is partnering with the SBA on Saturday, Jan. 4, 2025, to host the Community Resource Fair from 1-4 p.m. at the Valdosta Lowndes Parks & Recreation Authority Administration Office.

The event will feature presentations, credit repair resources, one-on-one assistance with SBA representatives, and resources to help attendees navigate the loan application process.

Here is some key information about the SBA Disaster Loans:

• Available to: Homeowners, renters, businesses of all sizes, and non-profit organizations in the 63 designated Georgia counties affected by Hurricane Helene.
• Loan types: Physical damage loans, economic injury loans, home disaster loans, and mitigation loans.
• Loan amounts: Up to $2 million for businesses, up to $500,000 for home real estate damage, and up to $100,000 for personal property.
• Interest rates: Ranging from 2.813% to 4%.
• Deadlines: January 7, 2025, for physical damage loans and June 30, 2025, for economic injury loans.

“We urge everyone who suffered losses from Hurricane Helene to attend the Resource Fair in January and learn about these valuable resources,” adds Johnson. “SBA and SGBC are committed to a long-term strategy for business development and to provide support for individuals throughout this application process.”

Anyone with questions is asked to contact info@sgablackchambers.org.

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