The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has announced that disaster funds are now available to businesses and residents in counties affected by recent flooding, according to a press release.

“SBA is strongly committed to providing Arizona with the most effective and customer-focused response possible, and we will be there to provide access to federal disaster loans to help finance recovery for businesses and residents affected by the disaster,” SBA Administrator Linda McMahon said in the press release. “Getting our businesses and communities up and running after a disaster is our highest priority at SBA.”

Assistance is being offered to residents of Coconino, Gila, La Paz, Maricopa, Mohave and Yavapai counties.

Gov. Doug Ducey recently wrote to SBA appealing for disaster loan assistance for Yavapai County residents affected by wildfires and flooding.

The Goodwin fire, which began on June 25, and the monsoon flooding displaced many residents. A joint Preliminary Damage Assessment of Yavapai County showed that 14 homes were destroyed, 22 with major damage, 84 experienced less damage, and six businesses were economically affected, the release said.

“Many residents in Yavapai County and around the state continue to deal with the damage caused by wildfires, and face ongoing threats of flooding,” Ducey said in the release. “This assistance request, if granted, will enable Yavapai County residents to apply directly to the SBA to help repair or rebuild damaged infrastructure. Responding to these disasters, including in their aftermath, remains a top priority for Arizona. We will continue to work with local and federal officials to make assistance available to those dealing with disasters.”

Ducey has since declared a state of emergency and met with the affected residents.

Editor's note: This story has been updated to include the Small Business Administration's response to Gov. Doug Ducey's appeal for disaster loan assistance.