JASPER COUNTY, Texas — The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) approved a request from Texas Governor Greg Abbott for a disaster declaration for Texas communities that were affected by severe storms and flooding that began on April 8.
The declaration will make disaster loans available for Jasper County and its neighboring counties.
Previously, Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) requested help from SBA in storm damage assessment.
"With severe flooding damaging homes and businesses in Jasper County earlier this month, Texas continues working to provide all available resources needed to help Texans recover," said Governor Abbott.
Now that the state's request is approved, the SBA will provide low-interest loans through its disaster programs to qualifying Texans whose homes and businesses sustained damage during the storms and flooding.
"I thank the Texas Division of Emergency Management for working tirelessly with local partners to ensure Jasper County and surrounding communities meet the eligibility requirements for additional financial assistance," Governor Abbott said.
Local, state and federal officials conducted an analysis of damage done in impacted communities. The analysis verified that Jasper County meets the federally-required thresholds for SBA assistance.
Officials also reviewed disaster damage details that were self-reported by Texans through Individual State of Texas Assessment Tool (iSTAT) surveys.'