Exciting Progress in Flood Recovery Efforts for Small Businesses in the Region

Exciting Progress in Flood Recovery Efforts for Small Businesses in the Region

In the heart of our community, Johnson City is witnessing a wave of compassion as small businesses rise from the devastating effects of a recent flood. Just a mere 17 days have passed since Region AHEAD launched its fundraising efforts, and already donations have soared to an impressive half a million dollars. This remarkable achievement has come thanks to the unwavering support from individual and corporate donors who recognize the urgent needs of our local enterprises.

Gratitude and Optimism from Local Leaders

Andy Dietrich, the chairman of Region AHEAD, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has jumped in to help. “We are so grateful for those who have seen the need and responded quickly to help our region’s small businesses begin their path toward recovery,” he said. With the recent funds raised, the organization is nearly doubling the support they can provide compared to the past COVID relief efforts, which gathered $253,000. “Our goal is to raise $1 million to truly address the needs created by this 500-year flood in our region,” continued Dietrich. This ambitious target surely reflects the determination and hope that our community holds for restoring local economic activity.

The Story Behind the Donations

The donations have come in all sizes, ranging from $20 to significant contributions of up to $150,000. Beth Rhinehart, President and CEO of the Bristol Tennessee and Virginia Chamber of Commerce, emphasized how every donation counts. “All of our donors have seen the need to get money to small businesses as quickly as possible. We will continue our push to reach our $1 million goal,” she assured. Some of the major contributors include notable names like Ballad Health, Bank of Tennessee, and BlueCross Blue Shield of TN Foundation, who have collectively donated amounts between $10,000 and $150,000.

Heartfelt Stories from Grant Applicants

As funds pour in, so do the heartbreaking stories from local small business owners who are applying for grants. Lottie Ryans, the Director of Workforce & Literacy Initiatives for the First Tennessee Development District (FTDD), stated, “Grant applicants are telling heartbreaking stories about how their businesses have been severely affected by the flood.” The pool of grant applications is expanding, with submissions coming from areas in both Southwest Virginia and Northeast Tennessee. Various sectors are represented, including tourism-related businesses as well as retailers and construction companies. With hopes high, Ryans mentioned that they expect to start disbursing funds to successful applicants by the end of October.

Counties Benefiting from the Donations

The flood recovery initiative is targeting several counties where the donations can make a significant difference. In Tennessee, eligible counties include Carter, Greene, Hancock, Hawkins, Johnson, Sullivan, Unicoi, and Washington. Meanwhile, in Virginia, the counties encompass Buchanan, Dickenson, Lee, Russell, Scott, Smyth, Tazewell, Washington, and Wise. Small business owners eager to apply for a Region AHEAD grant can easily do so by visiting the website RegionAhead.com, where the application process is just a few clicks away.

Join the Cause

For those looking to contribute, donations can be made specifically for certain counties or can go into a general fund that benefits all affected areas based on need. Region AHEAD is made up of original partners united in this flood recovery effort, including various chambers of commerce and developmental districts across the region.

In closing, the spirit of community support is stronger than ever, and your assistance could help many small businesses get back on their feet. Whether you’re looking to make a donation or apply for a grant, head over to RegionAhead.com to find out how you can be a part of this tremendous recovery journey.