In this episode of Kankakee Valley Community Happenings, host Denny Case speaks with Janell Dixson, Public Affairs Specialist for the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). They discuss federal disaster loan assistance available to residents, non-profits, and business owners recovering from severe storm damage in northern Illinois and surrounding areas. Key Topics Covered: Eligibility: SBA disaster loans are available to businesses of all sizes, non-profit organizations, faith-based groups, homeowners, and renters. Funding Limits: Businesses and non-profits can apply for up to $2 million for physical damage and economic injury. Homeowners are eligible for up to $600,000 to repair or replace primary residences, while renters and homeowners can receive up to $100,000 for personal property losses. Loan Terms: Approved loans carry no interest accrual and no repayment requirements for the first 12 months. Affected Areas: Primary disaster counties include Cook and Will counties in Illinois, along with contiguous counties including DuPage, Grundy, Kane, Kendall, Lake, and McHenry in Illinois, and Lake County in Indiana. Important Deadlines: The deadline for physical damage applications is October 19, 2026, and the deadline for economic injury applications is May 18, 2027. In-Person Outreach: The Disaster Loan Outreach Center at the Village of Monee Public Works (5755 W. Industrial Dr., Monee, IL 60449) is open through Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at 5:00 PM. To apply online or inquire about loan status, visit lending.sba.gov, email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov, or call 1-800-659-2955. Get more from the WVLI Podcast Network! Listen to the WVLI News Update with Rob West every weekday morning. Get the days local news from the greater Kankakee County, IL area in 10 minutes or less. Subscribe now on your preferred podcast platform: https://wvlinewsupdate.buzzsprout.com The Voices You Trust, Beyond The Dial.
