July 18 | View as Webpage

RECOVERY, RESILIENCY & RESOURCES

As we continue to navigate the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl, I am inspired by the resilience and strength of our community. The spirit of Houston remains unwavering, and together, we will rebuild and emerge even stronger.

To support businesses affected by the hurricane, we have compiled a list of resources available to help you recover and get back on your feet. These include financial assistance programs, business recovery guides, and support services. Please visit our website for detailed information and updates on disaster recovery resources.

In light of the recent events, we have extended the deadline for the Rising 10 Awards. We recognize that many of you have been focused on recovery efforts, and we want to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to participate and be recognized for their outstanding contributions to our community. The new deadline is July 22, 2024. Apply here, today!

Let us continue to stand together, support each other, and demonstrate that we are Houston strong. Our community’s resilience and solidarity will lead us to a brighter future.

Warm regards,

Sydney Dao

Board Chair

Asian Chamber of Commerce

SBA Disaster Loan Information Session

Friday, July 19

The Small Business Administration (SBA) is offering disaster assistance to businesses and residents impacted by Hurricane Beryl between July 5 and July 9, 2024.

The assistance program will cover essential topics, including:

• Loan options
• Eligibility
• How to apply
• Deadlines
• Support resources

Additionally, the session will include a Q&A, allowing participants to get answers to their specific questions. For more detailed information on the Hurricane Beryl Disaster Declaration, please visit SBA Disaster Assistance.

Register for the assistance session here.

Additional Support and Resources

For those Impacted by Hurricane Beryl

In the wake of Hurricane Beryl, the Asian Chamber of Commerce is committed to supporting our community through recovery and rebuilding efforts. Several organizations are offering crucial assistance and resources to help businesses and residents affected by the storm.

SBA (Small Business Administration)

The SBA is providing low-interest federal disaster loans to businesses, private nonprofits, homeowners, and renters. These funds can be used for repairs and replacements of damaged or destroyed property, inventory, and other business assets. For more information and to apply, visit www.sba.gov/disaster.

FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency)

FEMA offers a range of disaster assistance programs, including grants for temporary housing, emergency home repairs, and uninsured disaster-related expenses. Residents can register for assistance at www.disasterassistance.gov or by calling the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362.

Local Resources

Several local organizations are also stepping up to support the recovery efforts:

• Houston Business Development, Inc. (HBDi) provides financial assistance and resources for small businesses to recover and thrive post-disaster.
• United Way of Greater Houston offers relief funds and connects residents with essential services, including food, shelter, and mental health support.
• Greater Houston Partnership is coordinating efforts to support the business community with recovery information and resources.
• ReadyHarris.org. For up-to-date information, you can visit ReadyHarris.org. This site provides user-friendly access to information on how to prepare for all types of disasters, highlights access to real-time alerts regarding ongoing emergencies, and connects you with state-of-the-art tools available to help you plan, recover, and stay safe.
• 2-1-1 is our community’s go-to resource in times of disaster and every day of the year. The service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and in numerous languages. Call 2-1-1 for assistance or go to 211texas.org for debris cleanup and removal, as well as for location for food, water, ice distribution, cooling centers, and transportation assistance. You can also reach out to them to find nearby volunteer opportunities.

Volunteers Needed

Harris County needs volunteers to support debris cleanup and tree removal for Harris County residents. If you or your organizations are able to help, please check the various volunteer shifts available here, or visit VolunteerHou.org.

Additional details: You must be 18 and older, wear pants and closed-toed shoes like boots, wear PPE (gloves and protective eyewear, if available), and bring sunscreen/insect repellent, especially water!

We encourage all affected members to take advantage of these resources. The Asian Chamber of Commerce stands with you as we work together to rebuild and recover. Please visit our website or contact our office for more information and additional support.

Uplifting AAPI, Uniting Communities

Join Us at the AAPI Houston Convention!

The City of Houston Mayor’s Asian American and Pacific Islander Advisory Board proudly presents the first-ever AAPI National Convention Houston on July 27, 2024, at the Marriott Marquis Houston. This landmark event aims to unite the AAPI community, foster a collective voice, and drive meaningful progress.

Under the theme "Uplifting AAPI, Uniting Communities," the convention will coincide with the 2024 Leadership Convention by the National Association of Asian American Professionals (NAAAP). Attendees will enjoy a robust lineup of keynote addresses, panel discussions, workshops, and networking sessions featuring esteemed thought leaders, change-makers, entrepreneurs, scholars, and government officials.

Additionally, participants can explore the NAAAP Diversity Job Fair and the NAAAP Community Weekend Market.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to connect, share ideas, and empower advocacy within the AAPI community. For more information and to register, visit houstonaapiconvention.org/convention.

Join us in making history and shaping the future of the AAPI community. We look forward to seeing you there!

3535 Briarpark Drive, Suite 108

Houston, TX 77042

(713) 782-7222