SBA Disaster Loan Deadline Approaching for March 6 Tornado Victims in Sherwood and Union Townships

Time is running out for residents and business owners in Sherwood and Union townships who were affected by the March 6 tornado. The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has set a firm deadline of July 7, 2026 for applying for low-interest disaster loans. If you suffered damage from the storm that tore through Calhoun County, this is your opportunity to access affordable financing to rebuild and recover.

The March 6 tornado caused significant destruction across parts of Battle Creek and surrounding townships. Homes were damaged, businesses were interrupted, and many families are still working to get back on their feet. The SBA disaster loan program exists specifically to help communities like ours bounce back when disaster strikes.

What You Need to Know About SBA Disaster Loans

The SBA offers two main types of disaster loans for tornado victims:

Home Disaster Loans: Homeowners and renters can borrow up to $500,000 to repair or replace damaged real estate. Renters may qualify for up to $100,000 to replace personal property.

Business Disaster Loans: Businesses of any size can borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace damaged property, machinery, inventory, and other business assets. This includes working capital loans to help cover operating expenses while you rebuild.

These loans feature interest rates as low as 4 percent for businesses and 2.063 percent for homeowners, with terms up to 30 years. That is significantly better than most traditional financing options.

Who Qualifies and How to Apply

You do not need to own a business to qualify for SBA disaster assistance. The program is open to:

• Homeowners with damaged property
• Renters who lost personal belongings
• Business owners with physical damage or economic injury
• Nonprofit organizations

To apply, visit the SBA Disaster Assistance website or call the SBA Disaster Customer Service Center at 1-800-659-2955. You can also apply in person at the Battle Creek City Hall or local disaster recovery centers.

Important: Even if you have insurance, you should still apply. SBA loans can cover gaps that insurance does not, including deductibles and uncovered losses.

Local Support Is Available

You do not have to navigate this process alone. The Calhoun County Emergency Management office has resources to help residents understand their options. Local nonprofits and community organizations are also standing by to assist with paperwork and questions.

The State of Michigan has additional recovery resources available for tornado victims, including housing assistance and mental health services.

If you are unsure where to start, contact the Battle Creek Community Foundation or the United Way of Battle Creek and Kalamazoo. They can connect you with local navigators who understand the SBA process.

Do Not Wait Until the Last Minute

The July 7 deadline is firm. The SBA does not extend deadlines for individual applicants. If you wait too long and miss the window, this low-interest assistance will no longer be available.

Gather your documents now: insurance information, damage estimates, tax returns, and any receipts for expenses you have already paid. The application process takes time, and the sooner you start, the sooner you can access the funds you need.

Our community has always come together in tough times. Sherwood and Union townships are filled with resilient people who look out for each other. If you know a neighbor who was affected by the March 6 tornado, please share this information with them. Some folks may not realize help is available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the deadline to apply for SBA disaster loans for the March 6 tornado damage?
A: The deadline to apply is July 7, 2026. Applications must be submitted by this date to be considered for low-interest disaster loans.

Q: Can homeowners apply for SBA disaster loans, or are they only for businesses?
A: Yes, homeowners and renters can apply. Homeowners may qualify for up to $500,000 to repair or replace damaged property, and renters may qualify for up to $100,000 to replace personal belongings.

Q: Where can I get help filling out the SBA disaster loan application in Battle Creek?
A: You can call the SBA Disaster Customer Service Center at 1-800-659-2955, visit the SBA website, or contact local organizations like the Battle Creek Community Foundation for assistance navigating the application process.