State to launch loan program for Kauai businesses impacted by Hurricane Lowell

After clearing the wreckage, Schwartz filed an insurance claim, which was denied.

Warning areas and potential impact

Hanalei Burger is among the impacted businesses that can apply for a recovery loan from the state.

The Chamber of Commerce Hawaii is offering loans of $5,000 and $10,000 to Kauai businesses with losses from Lowell that are not covered by insurance.

“It’s just devastating.

We’ve seen these storms, one after another, hitting our small businesses, and it’s already challenging to run a small business in Hawai’i,” Chamber of Commerce president and CEO Sherry Menor said.

About a week ago, Kaua’i Shrimp announced it would permanently close its Kekaha operations due to costly damage from the hurricane.

“That’s a common story and we cannot afford to have more businesses continue to shut down,” Menor said.

While determined to reopen Hanalei Burger, Schwartz is unsure how, as she was advised to buy an entirely new truck.