Texas Border Business
Pharr, Texas – The City of Pharr, the Pharr Economic Development Corporation, and the Greater Pharr Chamber of Commerce will host a Disaster Relief Public Forum in conjunction with the Small Business Administration (SBA) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to discuss assistance available to the public as recovery efforts continue following the aftermath of recent severe floods. The forum will take place from 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm on Tuesday, July 17 at the Pharr Events Center (3000 N. Cage Blvd., Pharr, Texas).
“Pharr has been working diligently to assist in recovery efforts, partnering with local, state, federal, and nonprofit partners to help provide resources, assistance, and relief to our residents,” said Ambrosio Hernandez. M.D., Mayor of Pharr. “We are thankful for our many partners, volunteers, and the support of our state and federal leaders as we begin the process of helping families recover.” He continued, “This forum will help us coordinate efforts, resources, and inform the public on the services readily available to them.”
Following President Trump’s federal disaster declaration for Texas on Friday, July 6, 2018, the SBA and FEMA have announced various programs, loans, and disaster assistance efforts available for those affected by the flooding. Most recently, the SBA opened a Business Recovery Center in Weslaco to assist with claims and coordinate services for business owners, homeowners, and renters who experienced damage and property loss. Mayor Hernandez and the city commission also pledged $40,000 to Affordable Homes of South Texas, Inc., an organization who is distributing grants of up to $300 for flood victims in Pharr.
“Our city has done a tremendous job in coordinating services, informing the public of available resources, and working with all partners to begin recovery efforts,” stated Victor Perez, Pharr EDC Executive Director. “We encourage the public to attend the forum, as they will have the opportunity to meet with the representatives who are assisting with services, ask questions, and receive assistance with applying for aid. This will help to ensure that they have utilized all resources available to them as they begin to recover and rebuild.”
The forum is open to the public and all media are invited to attend.
