WASHINGTON — Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan’s administration has organized a workshop for businesses damaged in the late April riots that broke out after the death of Freddie Gray in police custody.
The protests that erupted into riots destroyed some businesses, and business owners in some sections of the city are still trying to determine if and when they can make a comeback.
Roger Campos, appointed by Hogan to serve as a business ombudsman, says Friday’s workshop at the Morgan State University campus will link businesses to agencies that can help, from the Small Business Administration to local agencies. Campos says there will be information on free loan packaging, free legal assistance, free mentoring and advice.
“They’re going to have an opportunity to reach out and actually talk to experts.”
Some businesses were made aware of the workshop and contacted by city and state officials about other forms of assistance. But others, like the J-Mart Wigs, owned by Matt Chung’s parents,have heard nothing according to Chung.
“I can only speak for our family situation, but we’ve not been contacted whatsoever — by anybody.”
Campos understands that frustration, but says his office and state agencies have been trying to get to everyone. Campos says some businesses were completely destroyed and locating the owners has been challenging. Campos says he hopes the workshop can prove to be a springboard for all affected business owners. He says despite the riots and the recent spike in crime in Baltimore City, there are opportunities for recovery and growth.
The workshop will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Murphy Fine Arts Center at Morgan State University at 2201 Argonne Drive in Baltimore. There’s no need to sign up in advance. After presentations, business owners will have a chance to meet one on one with representatives from the various agencies attending.
A list of presenters includes:
- Roger A. Campos, Governor’s Business Ombudsman
- Alana Chavez, Small Business Administration, Federal Disaster Loans (up to $2 million loans)
- Cheivelle Hill, Department of Housing & Community Development ($35K loans/grants, up to $500K)
- Joy Hatchette, Maryland Insurance Commission (uninsured)
- Les Hall, Department of Business & Economic Development (loans)
- Jeff Trice, Department of Labor, Licensing & Regulation (lost wages/unemployment)
- Darryl Massey, Maryland State Lottery & Gaming Control Agency (lost or stolen lottery tickets)
- Kerry DeVilbiss, Baltimore Development Corporation ($35K loans/grants)
WTOP’s Kate Ryan contributed to this report.
