Chamber holds disaster assistance meeting for businesses

FALLBROOK — On Thursday, November 8, a mere 11 days after the Rice Fire was contained, the Greater Area of Fallbrook Chamber of Commerce hosted a business disaster assistance meeting.

During the fire businesses in Fallbrook, which includes agricultural, were damaged by the fire, while others were damaged as a result of it. The purpose of the meeting was to focus on impacts and programs for of assistance for businesses.

Speakers included Mark W. Randle, SBA Federal Disaster Loans; Jason Jackson, USDA and FSA, Federal Assistance for Farmers; and agency representatives of FEMA and the State of California Insurance Commissioner’s office, who presented information on their agencies roles, programs and contact information.

Local bankers with extensive experience in SBA loans were introduced as the Fallbrook Chamber Recovery Resource Team: Jeff Minch, Temecula Valley Bank; Leslie Younker, Inland Empire National Bank; Teri Hudson, Pacific Coast National Bank, Senior Vice President/SBA Manager; and Kurt Priewe, Pacific Western Bank. Each gave a brief presentation about what assistance they could provide and offered help to complete their applications to the agencies.

FEMA, SBA and USDA encourage those with losses to immediately go to the Local Assistance Center at Fallbrook Community Center to register for the various programs of assistance offered.