LENA, Ill. — The U.S. Small Business Administration has extended operations at its Disaster Loan Outreach Center serving residents affected by the April 17 EF2 tornado that struck Lena, causing extensive damage to homes, businesses and infrastructure. The tornado, which was reported to be as much as 750 yards wide, tore through the village, damaging buildings and knocking out power, though no fatalities were reported. SBA officials said more than 40 applications for assistance have been received and about eight loans have been approved and disbursed so far.
“We had a disaster loan outreach center on the ground in Lena through June 9th, but we were there for about three weeks. Through the three weeks, we took more than 40 applications and have dispersed about eight loans to date,” said Jim Accurso of the SBA Office of Disaster Recovery.
Local leaders requested the center remain available longer to give additional residents time to seek assistance. Homeowners may qualify for up to $500,000 for repairs to damaged property, while homeowners and renters may be eligible for up to $100,000 to replace personal property losses. The SBA is offering low interest disaster loans to residents of Stephenson County and neighboring eligible counties. The deadline to apply for physical damage assistance is July 17.
Photo courtesy WIFR
