On May 7, 2024, the City of Portage experienced significant damage from this weather event as the path of the tornado cut a trail of destruction from one side of town to the other. Homes and businesses were destroyed, infrastructure damaged and lives forever changed. This page offers resources to those individuals, families, and businesses affected by the tornado.

Announcements

After the Storm Provides Disaster Case Management Services in Portage

Following the EF2 tornado that struck Portage on May 7, 2024, After the Storm, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, offers vital Disaster Case Management services to those impacted. This initiative is supported by funding from the Kalamazoo Community Foundation and the United Way of South Central Michigan. 

Residents affected by the tornado are encouraged to contact After the Storm at (517) 855-8077 to connect with a local Disaster Case Manager. Callers can expect a response within two business days to begin the intake process, ensuring they receive the necessary support and guidance.

After the Storm specializes in long-term disaster response and recovery by providing crucial early intervention, helping survivors navigate the steps needed to rebuild their lives. This includes offering accurate and timely information, referrals to essential resources, identifying solutions for urgent needs, and screening for eligibility in various disaster assistance programs. After the Storm services include:

• Comprehensive needs assessment and planning
• Coordination of financial assistance and other resources
• Emotional and mental health support
• Assistance with housing and relocation
• Support in navigating insurance claims and legal issues

By working closely with survivors, After the Storm ensures that they have the tools and resources necessary to achieve a full and sustainable recovery.

US Small Business Administration Disaster Assistance

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) offered assistance to Kalamazoo County homeowners, renters, and businesses affected by the May 7, 2024, tornado.

Types of Available Disaster Loans 

• Business Physical Disaster Loans – Loans to businesses to repair or replace disaster-damaged property owned by the business, including real estate, inventories, supplies, machinery, and equipment. Businesses of any size are eligible. Private, non-profit organizations such as charities, churches, private universities, etc., are also eligible.
• Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) – Working capital loans to help small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture, and most private, non-profit organizations of all sizes meet their ordinary and necessary financial obligations that cannot be met as a direct result of the disaster. These loans are intended to assist through the disaster recovery period.
• Home Disaster Loans – Loans to homeowners or renters to repair or replace disaster-damaged real estate and personal property, including automobiles.

For more information visit sba.gov/disaster. You may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.