The U.S. Small Business Administration says it can provide help to residents and business owners in Sampson County recovering from severe storms and straight line winds that struck May 29. The damaging thunderstorms toppled trees, blocked roads, damaged agricultural property and caused major damage to at least 25 homes and businesses in Sampson County. It was the second time in a week that severe storms impacted the county. Homeowners and business owners can apply to the SBA for low-interest federal loans of up to $200,000 to help them repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate. Homeowners and renters are eligible for loans up to $40,000 to repair or replace damaged or destroyed personal property. Residents in adjacent counties – Bladen, Cumberland, Duplin, Harnett, Johnston, Pender and Wayne counties – who sustained storm damages can also apply for loans. A Disaster Loan Outreach Center will open Friday, June 16 in the Sampson County Exposition Center to help individuals complete their applications. Then again Saturday from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m.. The center will be closed Sunday, June 18 but will be open Monday through Wednesday from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. The final day the DLOC will be open is Thursday, 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Jared Brumbaugh is the Assistant General Manager for Public Radio East. An Eastern North Carolina native, Jared began his professional public radio career at Public Radio East while he was a student at Craven Community College earning his degree in Electronics Engineering Technology. During his 15+ years at Public Radio East, he has served as an award-winning journalist, producer, and on-air host. When not at the station, Jared enjoys hiking long trails, tending his garden, stargazing on clear nights, and sharpening his culinary skills in the kitchen.