Small Business Resource Fair Offers Support for East Palestine Train Derailment Recovery Efforts

A Small Business Resource Fair is planned for May 17, 2023, in Darlington Township, Beaver County, to provide essential support for small businesses, farmers, and residents affected by the Norfolk Southern train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio. The fair, which will be open from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM, aims to connect individuals with valuable resources and information to aid in their recovery process.

Led by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection's (DEP) Small Business Ombudsman's Office and the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, the resource fair will collaborate with local partners to offer guidance on grant and loan opportunities, as well as other state resources available to the community.

Acting DEP Secretary Rich Negrin emphasized the administration's commitment to supporting affected residents, stating their goal of helping them regain a sense of normalcy following the train derailment. The resource fair serves as a testament to the the Pennsylvania government’s dedication to the well-being of Beaver and Lawrence counties, offering environmental sampling, health screenings, and small business assistance to facilitate the recovery process.

Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding highlighted the unified efforts of the Administration in addressing the concerns of Pennsylvanians affected by the incident. Their focus is on providing necessary test results to restore confidence in the safety of food produced in the region, connecting individuals with essential resources, and holding Norfolk Southern accountable for the incurred costs.

The Small Business Resource Fair is open to the public, providing an opportunity for attendees to access a wide range of programs and support services. Ongoing soil and water sampling in Pennsylvania have not shown any signs of contamination related to the derailment. Detailed information on the programs offered at the fair can be found on the provided link.

By hosting this resource fair, the Pennsylvania Administration reaffirms its commitment to aiding the affected community, supporting local businesses, and assisting residents in their recovery efforts.

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