Financial aid now available for Halifax flooding victims

The governor issued a disaster declaration last week for Roanoke Rapids, Gaston, Weldon and other nearby areas after nearly a foot of rain fell in the region on Aug. 25, damaging more than 150 homes and businesses and sending more than 50 residents to shelters.

Low-interest loans up to $200,000 are available from the U.S. Small Business Administration to homeowners and renters to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate and personal property.

Businesses and nonprofit organizations can also borrow up to $2 million for physical damage, and working capital loans are also available to small businesses and most private nonprofit organizations.

Those who don't qualify for a federal loan might be eligible for a state grant of up to a maximum of $31,400 to help pay for housing and other essential needs.

A U.S. Small Business Administration Disaster Loan Outreach Center will open Friday at the Senior Center at 701 Jackson St. in Roanoke Rapids to help victims complete applications for aid, answer questions about the disaster loan program and explain the application process.

It will be open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekdays through Thursday, Sept. 13, and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 8. The center will be closed Sunday, Sept. 9.