Federal loans available for Bay Area storm victims
SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- Bay Area residents and businesses affected by last month's severe storms and flooding can now get disaster assistance. The U.S. Small Business Administration is opening a temporary office in South San Francisco.
The disaster declaration makes low-interest, federal loans available in San Mateo, Alameda, San Francisco, Santa Clara and Santa Cruz counties. Homeowners, renters and businesses with damaged or destroyed property from the December 11 and 12 storms are eligible. They must apply by the March 3 deadline.
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The disaster outreach center opened Monday morning and is filled with people who are trying to get back on their feet.
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For the people who live in the Franciscan Terrace area of South San Francisco, the rain washed away a big portion of their lives on December 11 and 12. "My daughter, myself and my son lived downstairs and my father lives upstairs and everything we had is gone," Sonya Rivera said.
Several inches of rain flooded roads and homes in South San Francisco. The fire department says at last count 47 homes were flooded, including one rented by a woman named Cathie Fowler.
When asked if she has insurance, Fowler said, "No, I rent. I had an alarm on my house, so I didn't think this would happen to me. Who would think you need flood insurance in the Bay Area?"
Many people are in the same boat as Fowler. That's why, the U.S. Small Business Administration opened a disaster loan outreach center in South San Francisco.
People and businesses impacted by last month's flooding in San Mateo, Alameda, San Francisco, Santa Clara and Santa Cruz counties can apply for low interest loans to help rebuild and repair.
"It's a tough time. You know, holidays and the weather's cold and you don't have a home to live in. You're displaced. It's hard, so we're thinking this is very critical for them and hopefully many, many of the residents will be able to get the help that they're seeking," South San Francisco Mayor Richard Garbarino said.
There's a lot of help being offered at the small office space on Miller Avenue. Many agencies are giving advice on repair work, income tax issues and insurance claims.
However, after a natural disaster like this, you're not just trying to rebuild homes, but also lives. "It's kind of devastating. I cry every time I go back there, but what don't kill us will make us stronger don't they say?" Rivera said.
The outreach center will be open through January 15.
