Her own credit union failed her but North Coast SBDC came through and this business owner is grateful

Munwela's barber shop on 5th and L, like many businesses, has been closed due to the Humboldt County shelter in place order. She is self employed which adds to the financial challenges during the coronavirus pandemic.

Munwela tried to apply  for the Paycheck Protection Program and ran into some of the issues that other local, small business owners are experiencing. After waiting in line at Coast Central Credit Union which is her financial institution, she was frustrated at the lack of help and information. She tried other banks and either they had reached their quota or there were further hurdles regarding requirements and documents. Finally, U.S. Bank was willing to help her.

One example was that she had paper proof but she was told she needed to submit every thing online. "I am not computer savvy and there are many older barbers like me who need an alternative to the online option."

Munwela said that things took a positive turn after Michelle Lopez at the local SBDC helped her navigate the process and gave her the information she needed.