HOUSTON — In the wake of Hurricane Beryl, the search for financial assistance has become the latest challenge for people across southeast Texas
While FEMA recently opened individual assistance applications in 17 counties, not everyone will qualify for that specific financial aid. For those who are denied or simply not eligible, there are additional options available.
Small Business Administration
Business owners aren’t the only ones eligible for Small Business Administration (SBA) disaster loans.
Homeowners, renters, businesses, and private non-profits can apply for SBA assistance to help with Beryl-related damages.
Applications can be accessed online or in person at local recovery centers. The SBA Houston District Office will host a virtual disaster loan information session at noon Friday for residents to learn more about loan options and eligibility.
In a press conference Wednesday, SBA Associate Administrator Francisco Sanchez Jr. said businesses could quality for up to $2 million dollars in some cases.
“With homeowners, we help up to $500,000 for physical damage. If you are a homeowner or a renter, up to $100,000 for personal property, so furniture, your vehicle, clothes,” he said.
Greater Houston Disaster Alliance
The Greater Houston Disaster Alliance(GHDA) established the Hurricane Beryl Recovery Fund in the wake of the storm.
As of Thursday, the fund raised $3.6 million with donations from CenterPoint, HEB, Sarofim Foundation, Fidelity Charitable Catalyst Fund, Shell, and Wells Fargo. According to the GHDA website, those funds will go directly to non-profit organizations in the form of grants and residents cannot apply directly for financial help with GHDA.
Speaking to KHOU 11, a GHDA spokesperson confirmed the grants were not distributed as of Thursday, but it was the organization’s goal to distribute the funds as quickly as possible to “grantee” organizations.
In the meantime, GHDA said anyone with a pressing need for food or shelter could call 2-1-1.
Southern Smoke Foundation
The Southern Smoke Foundation offers relief to workers in the food and beverage industry.
Applicants are eligible for funding every 12 months. To qualify, one must be experiencing an unforeseen crisis, which can include a natural disaster. Applicants must also currently be employed within the food and beverage industry, working at least 30 hours per week for a minimum of six months.
Applications can be accessed online.