Boston - The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has approved Governor Maura Healey’s request for federal assistance to support Lynnfield small businesses affected by the strip mall fire that occurred on September 10. The six-alarm fire caused extensive damage to multiple businesses in Lynnfield’s Post Office Square. 

The SBA support requested by Governor Healey on October 23 allows impacted businesses to apply for low-interest, long-term Economic Injury and Disaster Loans up to $2 million to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster. 

“Small businesses are the backbone of our economy and the fabric of our communities,” said Governor Healey. “These loans will be crucial to helping these businesses recover financially, and I’m thankful to the SBA for quickly approving our request for assistance. We encourage all eligible businesses to apply for this assistance.” 

“The September 10^th fire closed five businesses and impacted the livelihood of dozens of employees,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “It’s going to be hard work to rebuild and reopen these businesses, and these loans will be essential in their recovery.” 

The SBA disaster support covers Essex County and the adjacent counties of Middlesex and Suffolk. 

On October 15, it was announced that funds for the SBA’s Disaster Loan Program have been fully expended. While no new loans can be issued until Congress appropriates additional funding, SBA continues to accept and process applications to ensure individuals and businesses are prepared to receive assistance once funding becomes available. Applicants are encouraged to submit their loan applications promptly for review in anticipation of future funding. 

How To Apply: 

To apply online and receive additional disaster assistance information visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email [email protected] for more information on SBA disaster assistance. 

For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.  

The filing deadline to return economic injury applications is July 28, 2025.