06/25/26
Our Thoughts Are With Colorado
Colorado is facing one of its most difficult wildfire seasons on record. Across the state and in communities close to home, fires have forced evacuations, destroyed structures, and stretched emergency resources to their limits. The Ferris Fire in Montezuma and Dolores counties, the Gold Mountain Fire near Ouray, and smoke filling the San Luis Valley sky are vivid reminders of how close this crisis hits for our neighbors, customers, and communities.
Our hearts go out to everyone who has been displaced, lost property, or is anxiously watching the horizon. To the firefighters and first responders on the front lines — including crews from the San Luis Valley — thank you for your courage and sacrifice.
If you've been affected by the wildfires, First Southwest Bank and our partner nonprofit First Southwest Community Fund are here to support you.
Resources for Personal Banking Customers
- Contact your banker directly. If you're facing hardship due to wildfire displacement or property loss, reach out to your local branch. We can discuss options such as payment deferrals, fee waivers, and emergency access to funds.
- Lost documents? We can help you replace bank statements, account records, and other financial documentation you may need for insurance claims or FEMA assistance.
- Emergency alerts and account access: Manage your account anytime through our mobile banking app or online portal.
- FEMA Individual Assistance: If your county has received a federal disaster declaration, you may be eligible for financial assistance. Visit disasterassistance.gov or call 1-800-621-3362.
Resources for Business Banking Customers
- Talk to your business banker. We understand that business disruption from a wildfire — lost revenue, damaged inventory, forced closure — can be devastating. Reach out to discuss your options.
- SBA Disaster Loans: The U.S. Small Business Administration offers low-interest disaster loans for businesses affected by declared disasters. Visit sba.gov/disaster for information and to apply.
- Document your losses. We can help you pull together financial records needed to support insurance claims or loan applications.
Resources for Small Business Owners
- First Southwest Community Fund: Our nonprofit affiliate exists to support small businesses facing barriers — including unexpected hardship. Contact us to learn about emergency lending options and technical assistance.
- Colorado SBDC Network: Free advising is available to help you assess your situation, plan your recovery, and connect with available resources. Find your nearest SBDC at coloradosbdc.org.
- USDA Emergency Loans: Agricultural producers and rural businesses may be eligible for USDA emergency loan programs. Contact our agricultural lending team or visit usda.gov.
- Colorado Emergency Relief Fund: Check with your county and the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) for any state-level recovery programs activated for your area.
We're here. Call or visit your nearest branch or visit to connect with our team.