United Way-led recovery center and emergency business loans mobilize after Beltrami County storm

Beltrami County officials described immediate post-storm recovery efforts and a newly launched emergency business-rebuild program from local partners to support storm-impacted residents and small businesses.

Tom Zemmer, Beltrami County administrator, said the United Way is leading local recovery with partners including Community Resource Connections, the Salvation Army, Bemidji Fire and the American Red Cross. He told commissioners a post-storm resource center operated daily at the old First National Bank building, 429 Minnesota Avenue, with hours 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and that people can contact United Way or Community Resource Connections after the center closes.

"They're connecting volunteers in our community that are willing to go and help those who can't help themselves, maybe clear the debris from their homes or help in other ways," Zemmer said. He described available resources including financial help, food, supplies, hot meals and volunteer services.

Commissioner Carlson described a parallel private-public effort organized by Greater Bemidji, Northwest Minnesota Foundation, Headwaters Regional Development Commission, United Way and other partners. The group created a Bemidji Business Rebuild Program that will offer emergency loans up to $10,000 at 0% interest for 12 months to businesses severely impacted by the storm. Carlson said approximately $200,000 to $250,000 was pooled quickly from participating agencies to get funds into the community with an expedited approval process.

Zemmer urged residents to use the resource center while it remains open and to contact United Way or Community Resource Connections for continuing assistance. The county and partner organizations said they will continue coordinating volunteers and aid and that details about loan application and eligibility will be distributed by Greater Bemidji and participating lending partners.