Cook County Receives U.S. Small Business Administration Disaster Declaration

SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced that the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has approved his request for disaster assistance to homeowners, renters, landlords and business owners located in Cook County and the neighboring Counties of DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry and Will. This disaster declaration is a result of the flooding that struck the Chicagoland area August 2, 25 & 30.

"I am pleased that the U.S. Small Business Administration approved this request," Governor Ryan said. "This disaster assistance will enable homeowners and businesses in these communities to recover from the damage caused by flooding and sewer backup."

This declaration will offer low-interest disaster loan assistance to homeowners and businesses that sustained physical damage caused by the severe storms and flooding that critically impacted the City of Chicago and surrounding communities in Cook County in August. This declaration only provides for low-interest disaster loan assistance through the SBA. No grant assistance is available. Applicants not eligible for a Small Business Administration disaster loan will be referred to the American Red Cross for possible assistance.

Applications for assistance are currently available by calling the SBA toll-free number 1-800-359-2227. Hours are Monday through Friday from 6:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Central Time.