NEW LONDON — Following the severe storms and major flooding that impacted the community this past April, the New London Area Chamber Foundation is sharing important updates regarding newly approved federal disaster resources, immediate community referrals, and the ongoing development of the local Flood Relief Fund distribution system.
Federal disaster aid now open for residents and businesses
A presidential major disaster declaration has been officially approved for the State of Wisconsin, unlocking significant federal resources for individuals, families, small businesses, and nonprofits impacted by the April 13–23 flooding event. Impacted community members are strongly encouraged to review and apply for the following programs:
FEMA Individual Assistance Program: This program offers direct financial assistance to eligible homeowners and renters. Aid can cover disaster-related needs not fully met by insurance, including emergency home repairs, temporary housing, personal property losses, and cleanup/sanitization.
How to Apply: Visit DisasterAssistance.gov, download the FEMA mobile app, or call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362.
U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Loan Program: Low-interest disaster loans are now available for small businesses, private non-profit organizations, homeowners, and renters. Businesses and nonprofits can borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged real estate, equipment, inventory, and other assets, or to cover economic injuries. Homeowners can apply for up to $500,000 for primary residence repairs, and residents can apply for up to $100,000 to replace personal property.
How to Apply: Submit an application online through the MySBA Loan Portal at lending.sba.gov or call SBA Customer Service at 1-800-659-2955.
Local Flood Fund Committee Advancing Through Phase 4
As federal programs launch, the New London Area Chamber Foundation Flood Fund Committee continues to work diligently behind the scenes. The committee is currently in Phase 4 of its structured recovery process, focusing on the creation of an ethical, efficient, and transparent system for long-term individual grantmaking and fund disbursement.
No final grant-making system has been approved yet. Instead, the committee is actively gathering local data on flood damage solutions and developing the necessary system to ensure that every dollar contributed to the fund is distributed responsibly and has the greatest possible impact on the community. As part of this process, the committee is collaborating with local community organizations to complement their resources and address small financial gaps without duplicating efforts.
The next critical step is to finalize formal agreements with local business partners and funding parameters. These partnerships will clarify how approved funds will be disbursed according to IRS disaster relief grant-making guidelines for individual applications once the system is established.
Fundraising Updates with New London local partners
The committee's work has been made possible through the incredible generosity of donors and local fundraising efforts. Most recently, a community Flood Relief T-Shirt Fundraiser, organized through a partnership between Chamber members Bastian Marketing, Changing Lives Foundation, Macaport, Deerbrook Transfers, Office Outfitters, and K & Co., contributed nearly $17,000 in proceeds to the Flood Relief Fund. This collaborative effort reflects the strong commitment of our local businesses and community members to helping neighbors recover and rebuild.
Immediate Needs? Connect with 211
The Chamber Foundation Flood Fund program serves as an intermediate recovery financial support program on behalf of our community and its generous donors. Households facing urgent needs or requiring equipment can find assistance from active local resources and dedicated organizations. If your household has an immediate need for disaster case management, cleanup assistance, or essential supplies, please contact 211 United Way Fox Cities. By dialing 211 or visiting their website, you will be directly connected to local referrals and disaster relief organizations ready to assist you.
https://unitedwayfoxcities.org/united-way-211/
How to Support the New London Flood Relief Fund
For community members, businesses, or organizations looking to contribute to the long-term rebuilding and recovery of our community, financial contributions are still being gratefully accepted. If you are interested in donating to the New London Flood Relief fund program, please visit the official website to make a secure donation:
Secure Online Donation Link: newlondonchamber.com/new-london-flood-relief-resources/
About the New London Area Chamber Foundation Flood Fund
The New London Area Chamber Foundation Flood Fund was established to support community resilience, local business stabilization, and household recovery following severe Wisconsin regional flooding in April 2026. Grounded in transparency and equity, the fund works alongside local leaders, business partners, and non-profit organizations to help the New London Area Community rebuild stronger.
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