CHICAGO – State Senator Javier Cervantes is encouraging Cook County residents and businesses who have been impacted by recent flooding and tornados to apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance.

“As soon as trouble started, we worked with local officials and got the ball rolling for federal disaster relief for our area,” said Cervantes (D-Chicago). “It’s vital in these situations to act fast and get resources to families so our communities can begin to rebuild and regain stability.”

The FEMA Disaster Assistance program offers temporary emergency housing, funding for damage-related home repairs, assistance with medical, dental, personal property, and transportation expenses, and disaster-related moving and storage expenses. The program can also make accommodations for language or disability barriers.

To apply for the FEMA Disaster Assistance program, Cook County residents and businesses can either call 800-621-3362 or visit DisasterAssistance.gov.

Low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration are also available. Businesses and private nonprofit organizations of any size may borrow up to $2 million to repair disaster-damaged or destroyed property. Homeowners can receive disaster loans up to $500,000 to repair or replace real estate, and up to $100,000 is available to repair or replace personal property. Applications are available at DisasterLoanAssistance.sba.gov or by calling 800-659-2955.

“I am committed to finding solutions for folks in our community and my office will continue to help facilitate assistance for residents,” Cervantes said. “Our backbones of the community have been shaken by disaster, and we are making sure Illinois residents know where to find the assistance they need.”

The deadline for both FEMA and SBA grants is Oct. 16. Cervantes encourages residents to apply as soon as possible.

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