Federal officials assess Highway 82 wildfire damage as SBA aid process begins

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - Federal and state officials met with Highway 82 wildfire victims Friday to assess damage and discuss potential aid as the fire reached 90% containment.

Ginger Hunter lost both her home and business in the historic wildfire. A wedding chapel that provided affordable ceremonies for the community and a dress shop run by her daughter were destroyed.

“In my mind I can turn around and see my chapel and my buildings and my things and my… and when I turn around it’s not there, and it’s still, it’s just a nightmare,” Hunter said.

Hunter said nothing was salvaged from either property.

Federal aid process underway

U.S. Small Business Administration Administrator Kelly Loeffler, a former Georgia senator, met with Hunter Friday alongside state leaders. The SBA works with disaster victims to provide low-interest loans to help rebuild.

“This is why we stay on the road outside of Washington to make sure we understand exactly what’s happening on the ground so that we can bring the right resources to bear,” Loeffler said.

To secure assistance from the SBA, Gov. Brian Kemp needs to put in a formal request addressing the needs of residents. Damage assessments will be conducted and recovery agencies will be instructed to help.

Once this process is complete, the SBA will set up disaster loan outreach centers in the community. Officials will help residents find everything they need to apply for a relief loan.

Despite the association’s name, the majority of disaster funding the SBA provides goes to homeowners and renters.

Community recovery needs

Officials said around 180 buildings were destroyed in the fire, the vast majority of them homes.

The wildfire began 25 days ago. Crews are continuing mop-up operations.

Hunter said as she begins clearing rubble and rebuilding, she hopes the government will help meet the community’s needs.

“There’s a financial need, and that’s the part, it’s getting people back at their home with their power and their water so they can begin the healing process,” Hunter said.

Hunter said she wants connection and communication and expressed gratitude for officials coming out to make contact with her.