VIDEO: Storm Victims Get Relief

KILMICHAEL, Miss. (WCBI News) – Trees have been moved and some repairs have been made in Kilmichael after storms swept through Montgomery County back in April.

However, finding the money to pay for these repairs has come at a slow pace.

The U.S. Small Business Administration opens its doors today in Kilmichael.

While it’s not a full reimbursement, the low interest loans available will help repay cleaning up the mess the tornado left behind.

“The tornado came through and blew some shingles off my house and stuff, leaking all in it and messed up some of the inside. I was thinking I could get some help to fix it,” said resident, James Eskridge.

The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency and the Small Business Administration representatives are set up at Montgomery County Elementary School, allowing residents to sign up for low interest loans.

Up to two hundred thousand dollars can be borrowed to make repairs and 40 thousand to replace personal property.

There are still signs of damage from the April 30th storms. However, thanks to relief funding from the state and federal government, it’ll make repairing houses faster and easier.

The original request for individual assistance funds was denied by the federal government.

People who had their homes destroyed say they feel better knowing there is help available to help them get back on their feet.

“I feel great. That makes me feel great to get it back to where it was and, you know, everybody getting back to a standard of living. It’s a tragedy; you got people that are uncomfortable. But by the grace of God, we know that it’s going to be rebuilt,” said resident Harvey Garrett.

“It means a lot because you all are here to help, and I hope that it be a success. I did put in for one, and whether I get it, you know, I just leave it up to you all and the good Lord to take care of the rest,” said resident Marjorie Gunn.

SBA is also offering loans to business owners and non-profit organizations.

The setup at Montgomery Elementary School will be open on weekdays from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

This will end on June 22nd at 5 p.m.

Categories: Local News

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