LAFAYETTE — Many small businesses aren't getting the support they need from the federal government. The Small Business Administration announced today that it has reached its limit for the Paycheck Protection loan program. Here in Acadiana, businesses say they won't make it without those funds.
Inside Saja's Pet Grooming on Kaliste Saloom is usually bustling with several employees and dogs. Since March, it has been empty - owner Brittney Danby closed her store down due to the coranvirus.
"I could technically be open because I sell dog food, but it's not enough to justify staying open and even myself coming in," Danby said.
Danby quickly applied for several grants under the CARES Act, with hopes of seeing the money even quicker. But weeks later, she still has received nothing.
"There was one day, i was like it's not coming, what am I going to do?" Danby explained.
Now she says she is deep in the red, and hearing the SBA loan program is on hold worries her more
"The longer you sit with no money coming in, the longer you stay in the hole, everyone is going to want to get paid," Danby said.
During a press conference on Thursday, Lafayette Mayor-Parish President Josh Guillory, said some businesses will be able to re-open on Friday, but Danby says that won't be enough.
"At this point, we've been closed for a month now, that's a month lost. We have to make that up," Danby said.
For now, Danby and thousands of other small businesses must wait for Congress to approve a request from the Trump administration for another $250 billion for the program.
------------------------------------------------------------
Stay in touch with us anytime, anywhere.
To reach the newsroom or report a typo/correction, click HERE.
Download our free app for Apple,Android, Roku and Amazon devices.
Sign up for newsletters emailed to your inbox. Select from these options: Breaking News, Evening News Headlines, Latest COVID-19 Headlines, Morning News Headlines, Special Offers
