SBA office closing in Harrah, location effective soon.

It has been a challenging six months since devastating tornadoes swept through Harrah, leaving countless families grappling with the aftermath. This week, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is set to close its physical outreach location in the community, but the road to recovery is far from over.

Continuing Assistance for Tornado Victims

The tornado struck the neighborhood off Triple X Road in the early hours of November 3, leaving a path of destruction. As families continue to rebuild their homes, the proactive steps taken by the SBA have proven essential. Just over a month ago, the SBA opened an outreach center at the Harrah Church, and since then, they have disbursed more than $929,000 to support homeowners, businesses, and nonprofits.

Statements from the SBA

“As of May 13, we have offered financial assistance to various businesses and individuals,” said Javier Caltenco, public information officer for the SBA. “While dozens have visited us in person, even more have opted to apply for disaster loans online.”

Key Dates: What You Need to Know

The outreach center will officially close its doors on Thursday of this week. However, there’s still time for those impacted by the tornado to seek assistance:

• Physical Damage Claims: Open until May 27
• Economic Injury Claims: Open until December 29

The Importance of SBA Support

Many may think, “I don’t need the SBA; my insurance will cover all damages.” However, Caltenco urges caution: “If your insurance doesn’t cover everything, the SBA can help bridge that financial gap.”

Alternative Support Options

If residents are looking for in-person assistance beyond the closed Harrah center, they can visit any operational SBA location. Recently, a new center opened in Comanche County to assist flood victims, providing much-needed resources.

Conclusion: Community Resilience

As the physical wounds of the tornado begin to heal, the strength and unity of the Harrah community remain evident. While the SBA’s outreach center may be closing, the avenues for recovery continue to thrive, reminding us that hope and support are always within reach.

Stay Informed

For more information on available support and recovery resources, visit the official SBA website.