TUCSON, Ariz.— Today, Rep. Raúl M. Grijalva (AZ-03) issued the following statement after the Small Business Administration (SBA) announced SBA disaster assistance in Gila, La Paz, Maricopa, Pima, Pinal, Yavapai and Yuma counties. These low-interest federal disaster loans are available to Arizona businesses and residents affected by the severe storms, flooding and flash flooding that occurred earlier this year. 

“I am encouraged to see the SBA take action to provide significant relief to several counties in Arizona that experienced damage as a result of historic flooding and storms. The devastating aftermath of the storms, where many individuals lost their homes and where businesses were destroyed demonstrated the need for  federal government to step in​ as Gov. Ducey neglected to sign a federal disaster declaration for Gila Bend that would have provided much needed help. I strongly urge Arizona residents to review the eligibility information and apply for this disaster relief.”

The deadline to apply for property damage is Dec. 13, 2021. The deadline to apply for economic injury is July 13, 2022.

According to the SBA, applicants may apply online, receive additional disaster assistance information and download applications at https://disasterloanassistance.sba.gov/. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. Individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing may call (800) 877-8339. Completed applications should be mailed to U.S. Small Business Administration, Processing and Disbursement Center, 14925 Kingsport Road, Fort Worth, TX  76155.

In August, Rep. Grijalva sent a letter to Gov. Doug Ducey requesting that he take immediate action to secure federal funds for Gila Bend following historic flooding that has resulted in severe damage to the community. Click here to read the full letter.