County updates services, SBA aid after Hurricane Lowell
The county released recovery information after a federal disaster declaration, noting that the U.S. Small Business Administration is making low-interest loans available to eligible private nonprofits and faith-based groups in Kaua'i and Maui counties. The loans can fund property repairs, operating costs, and mitigation upgrades, with amounts up to $2 million and a 12-month payment deferral. Applications for physical damage are due Dec. 7, while economic injury applications are due July 7, 2027.
Federal aid for Hurricane Lowell includes a major declaration approved Oct. 7, after the governor’s Sept. 9 request. It makes public assistance available in Kaua‘i and Maui counties, helping agencies and qualifying nonprofits cover debris removal and rebuilding costs for transportation routes, bridges, public structures, and utility systems; households and individuals cannot receive direct payments through this program.
SBA loans target eligible private nonprofits and faith-based groups. Borrowers may receive as much as $2 million, with rates starting at 3.625 percent and repayment periods up to 30 years. The first year carries no interest or payments. Physical-damage applications close Dec. 7; economic-injury applications close July 7, 2027.
The combined federal and county recovery efforts could help Kaua‘i and Maui communities stabilize after Hurricane Lowell. Government agencies and qualifying nonprofits may restore public facilities and services sooner, while affected private nonprofits and faith-based groups might access loans to continue operations. Residents relying on food distributions and resource centers may find immediate relief, though loan deadlines and eligibility rules could leave some organizations or households facing gaps.