PINE RIDGE, S.D. – Federal disaster assistance is now available for members of the Oglala Sioux Tribe and surrounding communities recovering from severe storms and flooding that struck the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in June.
The storms, described as a 1-in-200-year weather event, brought 70-mile-per-hour winds, large hail, and widespread flooding that damaged homes, roads, and infrastructure across the reservation. Following a request from tribal leaders, a presidential disaster declaration was approved, opening the door for federal recovery assistance.
The U.S. Small Business Administration is now offering low-interest disaster loans to homeowners, renters, businesses, and nonprofits. Homeowners may qualify for up to $500,000 to repair or rebuild their primary residence, while renters can receive up to $100,000 to replace damaged personal property. Businesses and nonprofits may be eligible for up to $2 million in recovery funding.
To help residents access assistance, federal officials are opening a Tribal Assistance Center in Pine Ridge and deploying mobile recovery teams to communities across the reservation. The deadline to apply for physical damage loans is November 27, while economic injury loan applications will be accepted through June 1 of next year. Officials encourage anyone affected by the disaster to apply, even if they are unsure of their eligibility.
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