Jefferson City - Today, Governor Mike Parson requested the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) issue a disaster declaration to make available low-interest loans in response to the April 5 severe storms and EF-2 tornado that caused extensive damage in Bollinger County.  

“Joint assessment teams have documented extensive damage to homes and businesses in the impacted area, and I believe an SBA disaster declaration is warranted,” Governor Parson said. “Low-interest SBA loans would help Bollinger County residents and businesses rebuild and expedite the recovery process for the community.”

Representatives from the SBA, State Emergency Management Agency, and local emergency management officials conducted joint damage assessments on April 11 and 12 to determine the extent and type of disaster assistance necessary to assist with recovery efforts. The damage survey indicates that at least 37 homes and nine businesses in Bollinger County sustained major damage.

If the Governor’s declaration request is approved, qualifying homeowners, renters, businesses, and non-profits in Bollinger County as well as bordering counties (Cape Girardeau, Perry, Madison, Wayne, and Stoddard) could seek SBA low-interest disaster loans to help with rebuilding and recovery costs.

To assist survivors with unmet needs, SEMA’s Emergency Human Services team coordinated a Multi-Agency Resource Center (MARC) with volunteer partners, faith-based organizations, and other state and local agencies.

The MARC served a total of 269 individuals from 86 families on Wednesday and is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. today at the Bollinger County Health Center:

Bollinger County Health Center

107 HWY 51 North

Marble Hill, MO 63764

Thursday April 13, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Impacted residents are encouraged to attend the MARC to receive in-person information and support services, including insurance information, food stamp replacement, emergency financial assistance, and legal services.

Individuals with unmet needs should contact United Way 211. Call 2-1-1 for assistance or visit http://211helps.org. For additional resources and information about disaster recovery in Missouri, including general clean-up information, housing assistance, and mental health services, please visit recovery.mo.gov.