Treasurer Schmitt activates disaster relief program for Kansas City area small businesses and farms impacted by flash flooding

 Missouri State Treasurer Eric Schmitt

JEFFERSON CITY — Missouri State Treasurer Eric Schmitt today announced the activation of a disaster relief program for Kansas City area small businesses and farms impacted by flash flooding between August 20 and August 22.

The Harmed-area Emergency Loan Priority system, or HELP, authorizes 24-hour approval of support for low-interest loans obtained through participating lenders and has been activated for the following counties: Jackson, Bates, Cass, Carrol, Clay, Henry, Johnson, Pettis, Platte, and Ray. HELP is administered through the Missouri Linked Deposit Program.

"Recovering from flood damage can be a lengthy and burdensome process," Schmitt said. "Activating this program slashes red tape so small businesses and farmers can quickly obtain financing for recovery efforts without facing a mountain of paperwork and regulation."

The Missouri Linked Deposit Program is managed by State Treasurer Eric Schmitt. Missouri-based small businesses with up to 99 employees are eligible to receive a loan through participating institutions with the support of the Missouri Linked Deposit Program.

About 115 lenders with 350 branches throughout Missouri participate in the Missouri Linked Deposit Program. A list of participating lenders and program eligibility guidelines can be found online at

www.treasurer.mo.gov/linkeddeposit.