The deadline for tornado victims in southern Kentucky to apply for federal assistance has been extended by another month.
The date to apply for individual help from both FEMA and the Small Business Administration is now August 22.
Those in Caldwell, Laurel, Pulaski, Russell, Trigg and Union counties can apply.
SBA spokesperson Jim Accurso says his agency’s loans are more suited for long-term help. Its disaster loans are available to homeowners, renters and businesses.
“The FEMA infusion is going to help initially, and then if folks need additional funds down the line they can apply for our loan,” he said.
An EF4 tornado hit the southern Kentucky towns of London and Somerset last May, killing 19 and destroying several homes. Local and state officials designated it a “mass casualty” event.
Gov. Andy Beshear said during his regular media briefing the state is still sheltering 30 households who were impacted.
“Seven are in hotels. 23 are in travel trailers. 56 families have transitioned out. That means they have found more stable housing. That's a good thing. And I think we will likely be placing two more families,” Beshear said.
He also said Laurel County has collected 19,000 tons of debris, and estimates $2 million in damages, including to its waterway systems. The Trump administration recently approved public assistance from FEMA to help with repairs.
So far, FEMA has given out $2.6 million in individual assistance money. The SBA has given out 32 loans worth $1.5 million in total.
FEMA disaster recovery centers are open at the Somerset Community College branch in Laurel County, and the Center for Rural Development in Pulaski County. Victims can also apply online, through the FEMA helpline at (800) 621-3362 or by downloading the FEMA mobile app.
SBA assistance is also available at the disaster recovery centers, as well as the Pulaski County 911 Center and the Kentucky Highlands Investment Corporation in London. Victims can also apply online or through the SBA’s helpline at 800-659-2955, and more info can be found by emailing disastercustomerservice@sba.gov.
