Onward New River Valley is gathering information and resources for businesses affected by Hurricane Helene and will be posting information here as it becomes available. (Banner photo by Nothing Ahead)
THE SMALL BUSINESS SUPPORT CENTER (SBDC)
The Small Business Support Center (SBDC) is working on setting up Q&As for businesses in need of disaster recovery efforts. No matter the process, businesses will need to be registered in SAM.gov as a start. If a business needs assistance with registering, the SBDC will be happy to help. A button for Helene Disaster Assistance has been added to the SBDC website – which prioritizes support. www.nrvsmallbusiness.org
The Q&As will be recorded and can be viewed at:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VASBDC
Website: https://www.virginiasbdc.org/
THE UNITED WAY OF SOUTHWEST VIRGINIA
The United Way of Southwest Virginia is working to provide community fundraising for immediate and long-term assistance.
UWSWVA has initiated the 2024 SWVA Regional Disaster Relief Fund and will seed the first $25,000. All proceeds will directly support relief and recovery programs. The organization is collaborating with local government agencies, businesses, and fellow non-profits to ensure aid reaches those most in need swiftly and efficiently.
UWSWVA is calling on individuals, businesses, and organizations to contribute to the relief effort by donating on the UWSWVA website. All funds will be allocated to both immediate relief efforts and long-term recovery initiatives, ensuring that no family is left behind in the rebuilding process.
TAX RELIEF
The IRS has announced tax relief for several localities in Virginia, Tennessee, North Carolina, and other states. You can find the details of the affected areas and the specific relief provisions for Virginia using the following link:
Additionally, please refer to this link for the latest updates and guidelines from the Department of Labor:
OTHER RESOURECES
For tips on recovering from a disaster, please visit: https://www.ready.gov/recovering-disaster
Additional information on the damage assessment process can be found at: https://www.fema.gov/disaster/how-declared
For roadways, the public should report any concerns such as flooding, downed trees or road hazards to VDOT’s 24-hour Customer Service Center by visiting my.vdot.virginia.gov or calling 800-FOR-ROAD (367-7623).
For those who need help with cleanup/debris management you can contact the cleanup hotline for Hurricane Helene at 1-844-965-1386.
Information on FEMA’s public assistance can be found at: https://www.fema.gov/assistance/public
Contact your local emergency management office for details on local sheltering operations and supply needs at: https://lemd.vdem.virginia.gov/Public/