## Small Town, Big Dreams: Governor Stein Champions Western NC Businesses in Marshall
Marshall, a charming town nestled in the heart of Western North Carolina, buzzed with excitement this week as Governor Stein made a special appearance during Small Business Week. Amidst the aroma of freshly baked goods and the vibrant energy of local shops, the Governor took center stage, issuing a powerful call to action: more support for the small businesses that fuel Western NC’s economy.
D-SNAP: A Lifeline for Disaster-Impacted Communities
During Small Business Week, Governor Stein’s visit to Marshall highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by Western North Carolina’s small businesses in the wake of Hurricane Helene. A crucial element in the recovery process for many individuals and families is the Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP), which provides crucial food assistance to those impacted by the storm.
The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) has received approval to implement the first phase of D-SNAP in 25 western NC counties and the Eastern Band of the Cherokee households who reside in the 28719 zip code. The program is a lifeline for families struggling to recover from the storm’s economic impact, offering vital support during a difficult time.
“We estimate more than 150,000 people in western NC will apply for up to a combined $120 million in benefits,” said a spokesperson for NCDHHS. “But the window to apply is short, and we need your help making sure people who may be eligible know about D-SNAP and apply.
The program is designed to provide a one-time benefit on a debit-like card (called an Electronic Benefits Transfer, or EBT card) to help individuals and families buy food. The exact amount will depend on household size, income and estimated losses. The benefits are good for up to nine months.
To be eligible for D-SNAP, individuals must meet several criteria:
- Live in one of 25 counties in western NC (Alexander, Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Burke, Caldwell, Catawba, Clay, Cleveland, Gaston, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Lincoln, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Mitchell, Polk, Rutherford, Transylvania, Watauga, Wilkes, and Yancey Counties) or Eastern Band of Cherokee households living in zip code 28719.
- Have suffered losses/damages related to Hurricane Helene, such as damage to property or loss of income.
- Have proof of identity and proof of residency (if available).
- Have income and resources below certain levels.
- Not currently receive benefits through the Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) program.
- 10/18 – A-G
- 10/19 – H-M
- 10/20 – N-S
- 10/21 – T-Z
- 10/22 – Open to all
- 10/23 – Open to all
- 10/24 – Open to all
It is important to note that people receiving FNS can also get extra help buying food, but they do not need to fill out a D-SNAP application. They can get more information about how to get the extra help on the FNS webpage.
Applying for D-SNAP
Individuals interested in applying for D-SNAP are encouraged to apply by phone at the D-SNAP Virtual Call Center at 1-844-453-1117 or complete a pre-registration online using the ePASS Pre-Registration Tool. The online pre-registration will open on October 15th and close on October 24th.
Once applicants complete the pre-registration, applicants will be issued a confirmation number and will need to call 1-844-453-1117 between October 18th through October 24th to complete the interview part of the application.
Individuals can also apply at a D-SNAP location in their county. For a full list of places to apply and for more details, visit www.ncdhhs.gov/dsnap. Please note if you live on the Qualla Boundary in the 28719 zip code and you wish to apply in person, DSNAP applications are being taken on the Qualla Boundary at 1526 Acquoni Road, Cherokee, NC 28719.
Residents are encouraged to apply for D-SNAP by phone by calling on their assigned day by last name.
NCDHHS is working with USDA on adding two additional counties through phase two of the D-SNAP implementation at a later date. Once we get that approval, we will share additional information.
Challenges Faced by Small Businesses in Recovery
Financial Strain and Operational Disruptions
The financial strain on small businesses in the wake of Hurricane Helene has been significant. Many businesses experienced direct damage to their property, leading to costly repairs and temporary closures. Operational disruptions, such as power outages and supply chain issues, have further exacerbated the financial burden.
Loss of Customers and Revenue
The storm’s impact extended beyond physical damage, with many small businesses experiencing a sharp decline in customer traffic and revenue. Tourist-dependent businesses, in particular, have been hit hard by the cancellation of travel plans and the closure of popular attractions.
Insurance Claims and Recovery Process
Navigating the insurance claims process can be a daunting task for small business owners, especially during a disaster recovery. Delays in processing claims, disputes over coverage, and the complexity of paperwork can add further stress and financial strain.
Labor Shortages and Employee Concerns
Hurricane Helene may have led to employee displacement and anxieties about job security. This, coupled with the need for businesses to operate with reduced capacity, can create labor shortages and hinder the recovery process.
How Governor Stein’s Visit May Offer Hope and Resources
Governor Stein’s visit to Marshall during Small Business Week served as a powerful symbol of support for the Western North Carolina business community. The governor’s message emphasized the importance of resilience and highlighted the state’s commitment to assisting small businesses in their recovery efforts.
Highlighting Existing Programs and Initiatives
Governor Stein took the opportunity to highlight existing state programs and initiatives aimed at supporting small businesses, including:
- The Small Business Loan Program, which provides access to capital for small businesses.
- The Business Recovery Grant Program, which offers financial assistance to businesses impacted by disaster.
- The NC Small Business Center Network, which provides counseling and training to small business owners.
Direct Engagement with Business Owners
The governor’s visit also involved direct engagement with local business owners, providing them with a platform to share their experiences and concerns. This face-to-face interaction allowed for a deeper understanding of the specific challenges faced by businesses in the region.
Inspiring Confidence and Fostering Resilience
Beyond the practical assistance offered, Governor Stein’s visit served as a powerful source of encouragement and inspiration for the business community. His message of support and his willingness to listen to the concerns of small business owners helped to foster a sense of resilience and hope in the face of adversity.
Beyond the Visit: Supporting Western NC’s Economic Future
Existing Initiatives to Aid Small Businesses in Western NC
The state of North Carolina has a long-standing commitment to supporting the economic development of Western North Carolina, and several initiatives are in place to aid small businesses in the region:
- The Western North Carolina Small Business Development Center Network: Provides free counseling, training, and resources to small businesses in the region.
- The Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC): Offers funding and technical assistance for economic development projects in Appalachian communities, including Western North Carolina.
- The NC Rural Center: Focuses on strengthening rural economies by supporting small businesses and promoting rural entrepreneurship.
- Chambers of Commerce: Advocate for the interests of local businesses and provide networking opportunities.
- Economic Development Organizations: Work to attract new businesses to the region and support existing businesses.
- Nonprofit Organizations: Offer a variety of services to small businesses, such as microloans, training, and technical assistance.
- Tourism: The region’s natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities continue to attract visitors from around the world.
- Agriculture: Western North Carolina is home to a thriving agricultural sector, with opportunities for growth in specialty crops, sustainable farming practices, and agritourism.
- Technology and Innovation: The region is home to a growing technology sector, with opportunities for innovation in areas such as biotechnology, renewable energy, and cybersecurity.
The Role of Local Organizations and Community Resources
Local organizations and community resources play a vital role in supporting small businesses in Western North Carolina.
Looking Ahead: Potential Opportunities for Growth and Development
Despite the challenges posed by Hurricane Helene, Western North Carolina holds tremendous potential for economic growth and development.
Conclusion
Conclusion: Empowering Western NC’s Thriving Small Business Ecosystem
As we wrap up Small Business Week, Governor Stein’s visit to Marshall serves as a poignant reminder of the vital role small businesses play in shaping Western North Carolina’s economy. The governor’s call to action, emphasizing the need for increased support and resources for these local entrepreneurs, highlights the critical gap that exists between the region’s growth potential and the current infrastructure in place. By amplifying the voices of small business owners and advocating for targeted initiatives, Governor Stein’s efforts aim to foster a more inclusive and resilient economic landscape for the entire region.
The implications of this push are far-reaching, with potential benefits extending beyond the local economy to the state as a whole. By investing in Western NC’s small business ecosystem, North Carolina can capitalize on its unique assets, from the scenic beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains to the rich cultural heritage of its Appalachian communities. As the state’s economy continues to evolve, it is imperative that policymakers and stakeholders prioritize the needs of small businesses, which are often the primary drivers of local job creation, innovation, and community development.
As we look to the future, the success of Governor Stein’s initiative will depend on the collective effort of business leaders, policymakers, and community members who are committed to building a more robust and supportive environment for small businesses. By working together, we can unlock the full potential of Western NC’s small business sector, driving economic growth, creating opportunities for marginalized communities, and solidifying the region’s position as a hub for entrepreneurship and innovation. The question now is: will we rise to the challenge and create a brighter future for North Carolina’s small businesses? Only time will tell.