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Tag: impacted

  • UnitedHealth Now Estimates 190 Million Were Impacted by Cyberattack


    UnitedHealth now estimates that 190 million people were impacted as a result of the cyberattack on its Change Healthcare unit last February—almost double previous estimates.

    The attack disabled the company’s IT systems and affected treatment for months. It led to personal information like names, physical addresses, birth dates, Social Security numbers, driver’s license numbers, passport numbers, as well as medical and financial data being compromised. The company began notifying impacted customers in July 2024.

    “The vast majority of those people have already been provided individual or substitute notice,” said Tyler Mason, a spokesperson for UnitedHealth Group, in an email to TechCrunch, which first reported the updated numbers.

    “The final number will be confirmed and filed with the Office for Civil Rights at a later date,” he added. Mason said he was “not aware” of “any misuse of individuals’ information as a result of this incident” and said the company has “not seen electronic medical record databases appear in the data during the analysis.”

    Personal data captured in ransomware attacks—a type of cyberattack in which criminals encrypt a company’s data and demand payment to unlock it—is often sold on online black markets and used for identity theft, scam calls, and phishing emails.

    The hack is thought to have been carried out by the Russian-speaking AlphV/BlackCat ransomware group, which used a loophole in remote-access Citrix software to gain access to the company’s systems and lock up its data for ransom. The attack is expected to cost UnitedHealth from $2.3 billion to $2.5 billion. It made at least one ransomware payment of roughly $22 million.

    Recommended by Our Editors

    In December, the US Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) Office for Civil Rights (OCR) recommended that healthcare providers implement multi-factor authentication, encrypt patient data to safeguard it in case of a data breach, and undergo compliance checks to ensure their networks meet cybersecurity rules. It’s unclear if the Trump administration will pursue this.

    Profits at UnitedHealth fell by more than a third in 2024, dropping from roughly $22.3 billion in 2023 to about $14.4 billion.

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    About Will McCurdy

    Contributor

    Will McCurdy

    I’m a reporter covering weekend news. Before joining PCMag in 2024, I picked up bylines in BBC News, The Guardian, The Times of London, The Daily Beast, Vice, Slate, Fast Company, The Evening Standard, The i, TechRadar, and Decrypt Media.

    I’ve been a PC gamer since you had to install games from multiple CD-ROMs by hand. As a reporter, I’m passionate about the intersection of tech and human lives. I’ve covered everything from crypto scandals to the art world, as well as conspiracy theories, UK politics, and Russia and foreign affairs.


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    UnitedHealth, one of the largest health insurance companies in the United States, has recently announced that they now estimate a staggering 190 million individuals were impacted by a cyberattack on their systems. This cyberattack, which occurred earlier this year, has raised major concerns about the security of personal and sensitive information held by insurance companies.

    The attack, which targeted UnitedHealth’s IT systems, has potentially exposed vast amounts of personal data, including names, addresses, Social Security numbers, and medical information. This breach of security has left millions of individuals vulnerable to identity theft and other forms of cybercrime.

    UnitedHealth is working diligently to address the breach and secure their systems to prevent future attacks. They are also offering credit monitoring and identity theft protection services to those affected by the cyberattack.

    This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of cybersecurity and the need for companies to invest in robust security measures to protect their customers’ sensitive information. It also highlights the growing threat of cyberattacks on large corporations and the potential impact they can have on millions of individuals.

    As more details emerge about the scope of the breach and the steps being taken to mitigate its effects, it is crucial for individuals to remain vigilant and take proactive steps to protect their personal information. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.

    Tags:

    1. UnitedHealth cyberattack
    2. 190 million affected
    3. UnitedHealth data breach
    4. Cybersecurity incident
    5. Healthcare cybersecurity
    6. UnitedHealth cyber threat
    7. Data breach impact
    8. UnitedHealth cyber incident
    9. Cybersecurity breach
    10. UnitedHealth data security.

    #UnitedHealth #Estimates #Million #Impacted #Cyberattack

  • Trump Changes Health Care Enrollment for 24 Million People: Who’s Impacted


    In a move that has significant implications for millions of Americans, President Donald Trump has issued a series of executive orders, some of which target the healthcare marketplace. These changes are expected to affect the enrollment process and medical insurance coverage for an estimated 24 million people.

    Newsweek has reached out to the Trump transition team via email for comment.

    Why It Matters

    The Affordable Care Act (ACA), also known as Obamacare, has been a cornerstone of healthcare in the United States since its enactment in 2010. Roughly 24 million Americans have purchased health insurance via the ACA this year.

    Trump’s recent changes will impact key provisions, including enrollment deadlines, eligibility criteria and federal subsidies. These shifts could result in reduced access to affordable healthcare for millions of Americans.

    US President Donald Trump holds an executive order he just signed during the inaugural parade inside Capital One Arena, in Washington, DC, on January 20, 2025.

    JIM WATSON / Contributor/Getty Images

    What To Know

    On January 20, 2025, President Trump signed a series of executive orders. Two were aimed at reversing several key elements of the Affordable Care Act that were implemented during the Biden administration. This included rescinding President Biden’s 2021 executive order 14009, which expanded open enrollment periods for ACA plans, as well as 2022 executive order 14070, which aimed to lower ACA premiums.

    Executive Order 14009, titled “Strengthening Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act,” includes several key components designed to increase access to affordable health care and reduce the number of uninsured Americans:

    Reversal of Trump administration policies: The order sought to undo measures that limited ACA provisions or made healthcare less accessible.

    Longer enrollment periods: The order encouraged states to lengthen enrollment periods and provided additional federal support. As a result, many states extended their enrollment windows to ensure broader access to affordable healthcare.

    Restoration of pre-existing condition protections: Reaffirmed protections for individuals with pre-existing conditions and reinforced nondiscrimination policies in healthcare.

    Immediate review of agency actions: The order directed various executive departments and agencies to review existing regulations, orders, and policies to ensure they align with the goal of strengthening Medicaid and the ACA.

    Executive Order 14070, titled “Continuing To Strengthen Americans’ Access to Affordable, Quality Health Coverage,” aimed to maintain and enhance Medicaid and the ACA. Key components included:

    Enhanced marketplace subsidies: The order highlights the positive impact of the American Rescue Plan Act on access to coverage, including enhanced marketplace subsidies.

    Extended postpartum Medicaid coverage: It provides options for states to extend postpartum Medicaid coverage.

    New incentives for Medicaid expansion: The order includes new incentives for states to expand their Medicaid programs.

    What People Are Saying

    President Donald Trump, in the executive order, said: “The previous administration has embedded deeply unpopular, inflationary, illegal and radical practices within every agency and office of the federal government.” He added: “…it is the policy of the United States to restore common sense to the Federal Government and unleash the potential of the American citizen. The revocations within this order will be the first of many steps the United States Federal Government will take to repair our institutions and our economy.”

    Alex Beene, financial literacy instructor for the University of Tennessee at Martin, told Newsweek: “While we don’t yet know what the actual effects will be, it’s fair to say the reversal in trajectory from President Biden’s original executive order will lead to fewer Americans enrolling in insurance under the Affordable Care Act. That executive order extended enrollment periods for many states and excelled funding for outside entities to assist Americans in enrolling. The rescinding of it could return those enrollment time periods to their original length and cause assistance through third parties to decrease over time.”

    “The extending of the ACA enrollment periods were important for Americans whose personal and professional life situations took an unexpected turn and immediately needed additional coverage. It could be someone losing healthcare coverage through losing a job, moving to another location, having a child, or a number of other situations that cause a sudden change in the needs of that individual. Now, if they’re outside of that enrollment period, the process of finding coverage just got more difficult.”

    Kevin Thompson, founder and CEO of 9i Capital Group, told Newsweek: “Third-party funding played a significant role in boosting ACA participation. These funds, along with government subsidies, helped offset premiums for millions of Americans, driving the enrollment gains seen in recent years. A reduction in this funding will likely lead to lower enrollment numbers.”

    “The most vulnerable populations will be the hardest hit. Non-expansion states—many of which are red states—tend to have higher percentages of their populations enrolled in the ACA Marketplace. These states will face significant challenges with shorter enrollment periods and reduced subsidies. What was once campaigned as “we won’t touch entitlements” is now coming dangerously close to contradicting that promise.”

    What Happens Next

    President Trump’s recent executive orders are just the first steps in his broader agenda to reshape federal policies and assert executive power. He announced plans to launch the “largest deportation program of criminals in the history of America” targeting undocumented immigrants. He also threatened to impose 25 perceent tariffs on Canada and Mexico unless they take stronger measures to stop unauthorized migrants and illicit drugs. Additionally, Trump declared a national energy emergency to boost domestic oil and gas production and end the electric vehicle mandate.



    President Trump’s recent changes to health care enrollment could potentially impact up to 24 million Americans. The new rules, which were announced earlier this month, are expected to have far-reaching effects on individuals seeking to enroll in health insurance plans through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace.

    One of the most significant changes is the reduction of the open enrollment period from 90 days to 45 days, starting in 2021. This shorter window will make it more challenging for individuals to sign up for coverage, especially those who may have difficulty accessing the internet or navigating the enrollment process.

    Additionally, the Trump administration has also proposed changes to the rules governing special enrollment periods, which allow individuals to sign up for coverage outside of the regular enrollment period if they experience certain life events, such as losing their job or getting married. These changes could potentially limit access to coverage for those who need it most.

    Overall, these changes could have a significant impact on millions of Americans who rely on the ACA marketplace for their health insurance coverage. It is important for individuals to stay informed about these changes and seek out assistance if they need help navigating the enrollment process.

    Tags:

    1. Trump health care enrollment changes
    2. Trump administration impact on health care
    3. Healthcare enrollment changes under Trump
    4. Affordable Care Act updates
    5. Trump policy changes affecting health care
    6. Health insurance enrollment modifications
    7. How Trump’s actions affect health care enrollment
    8. Impact of Trump’s health care policies
    9. Changes to health care enrollment for 24 million
    10. Trump’s influence on health insurance enrollment

    #Trump #Health #Care #Enrollment #Million #People #Whos #Impacted

  • Resources available to undocumented individuals who may be impacted by Trump’s immigration plan


    LOS ANGELES (KABC) — Amid President Donald Trump’s announcement of “mass deportation plans,” pro-immigrant nonprofit organizations and foreign government officials are providing resources to those who possibly face a risk of deportation.

    Various consulate offices have created a resource guide indicating what rights an undocumented individual has. Anyone, no matter their immigration status, can access these resources.

    The Mexican Consulate has created a 24-hour phone line where Mexican nationals can be helped locating their families and obtain legal advice if they are deported.

    List of immigration guides from various consulates:

    – Mexico
    – Guatemala
    – El Salvador
    – Colombia
    – Canada

    Organizations like the ACLU have created a “Know your Rights – Immigrant Rights” guide where users can select from various scenarios. The site can be customized to your residing state and language.

    Both consulates and nonprofits want to warn the public about legal frauds. If you are a victim, you can report attorneys and notaries to your local State Bar.

    The Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights has created Immigrant Assistance Line available from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. to help with “Know Your Rights” issues and other immigration related questions. Additionally, the organization also created a “Know Your Rights” card which is available for download.

    “Together, we are a lifeline for one another,” said CHIRLA Executive Director Angelica Salas in a statement posted on the organization’s website. “In the face of adversity, we draw strength from our unity, our resilience, and our shared commitment to justice. We will work tirelessly to ensure that every immigrant family stays safe, informed, and connected to the resources they need. Now, more than ever, we must come together to support one another and stand strong against any threat to our community.”

    Copyright © 2025 KABC Television, LLC. All rights reserved.



    In light of recent developments in immigration policy under the Trump administration, many undocumented individuals may be feeling uncertain about their future in the United States. It is important for these individuals to know that there are resources available to support them during this challenging time.

    Here are some resources that undocumented individuals can turn to for assistance:

    1. Legal Aid Organizations: There are various legal aid organizations that provide free or low-cost legal assistance to undocumented immigrants. These organizations can help individuals understand their rights, navigate the immigration system, and provide representation in immigration court.

    2. Community Organizations: Many community organizations offer support services, such as counseling, financial assistance, food banks, and healthcare referrals, to undocumented individuals and families. These organizations can also provide information on immigration policy changes and how they may impact individuals.

    3. Hotlines: There are hotlines available for undocumented individuals to call for information and support. These hotlines can provide guidance on immigration issues, connect individuals with legal resources, and offer emotional support during difficult times.

    4. Educational Institutions: Some colleges and universities have resources available for undocumented students, such as legal clinics, financial aid assistance, and counseling services. These institutions can also provide information on scholarships and programs specifically for undocumented students.

    5. Immigration Advocacy Groups: There are numerous advocacy groups that work to protect the rights of undocumented immigrants and advocate for immigration reform. These groups can provide information on policy changes, organize community events, and offer support to individuals facing deportation.

    It is important for undocumented individuals to know that they are not alone and that there are resources available to support them during this challenging time. By reaching out to these organizations and seeking assistance, individuals can better navigate the complexities of the immigration system and protect their rights in the face of changing policies.

    Tags:

    1. Undocumented immigrants
    2. Trump immigration plan
    3. Immigration resources
    4. Undocumented individuals
    5. Immigration support
    6. Immigration assistance
    7. Trump administration policies
    8. Undocumented community
    9. Immigration help
    10. Immigration rights

    #Resources #undocumented #individuals #impacted #Trumps #immigration #plan

  • Firefighters battle multiple blazes in Los Angeles County, with Chico State responding to impacted students | News


    CHICO, Calif. – Firefighters battled early Thursday to control a series of major fires sweeping across Los Angeles County, including massive blazes in Pacific Palisades and Altadena.

    Officials say the fires have already claimed the lives of five people, destroyed homes and forced thousands of residents from their properties. Communities from the Pacific Coast to Pasadena have been ravaged, while evacuees fled in panic as flames raced through neighborhoods.

    Ferocious winds that have been fanning the flames and complicating evacuations have begun to subside, providing a glimmer of hope for first responders. Firefighters now have the opportunity to make more progress in containing the fires, though the situation remains volatile. As of Thursday morning, CAL FIRE reported the following statistics:

    • Palisades Fire: 17,234 acres
    • Eaton Fire: 10,600 acres
    • Hurst Fire: 671 acres
    • Lidia Fire: 348 acres
    • Sunset Fire: 43 acres

    As the fires continue to rage, Chico State is offering support to its students and staff who have ties to the Los Angeles area. The university is home to more than 1,000 students from LA County, many of whom have family and friends impacted by the devastation.

    “We are extremely concerned and devastated by the destruction these fires have caused,” Chico State said in a statement. “We currently have more than 1,000 students who hail from LA County. Beyond that, many students and employees have family or close friends in the area who have been affected.”

    Although the university is currently between semesters and students are not traditionally traveling back to campus this weekend, Chico State plans to closely monitor the situation as students return next week. “We want them to prioritize the well-being of themselves and their loved ones,” the statement continued. “We will work with students to provide resources and assistance as the semester gets started.”



    Firefighters in Los Angeles County are currently battling multiple blazes that have ravaged acres of land and threatened communities. The wildfires have forced evacuations and caused widespread destruction, with firefighters working around the clock to contain the flames.

    In response to the wildfires, Chico State University has activated its emergency response team to assist students who have been impacted by the fires. The university is providing support and resources to those affected, including temporary housing and other forms of assistance.

    As the fires continue to rage, residents in the affected areas are urged to stay vigilant and follow evacuation orders to ensure their safety. Our thoughts are with those who have been affected by these devastating wildfires, and we are grateful for the brave firefighters who are working tirelessly to protect our communities.

    Tags:

    Firefighters, multiple blazes, Los Angeles County, Chico State, impacted students, wildfires, emergency response, California wildfires, firefighting efforts, disaster relief, news updates

    #Firefighters #battle #multiple #blazes #Los #Angeles #County #Chico #State #responding #impacted #students #News

  • MLB rumors: Padres’ Roki Sasaki pursuit could be impacted by international signing


    aj-preller-getty.png
    Getty Images

    Major League Baseball’s offseason continues to tick down with spring training camps opening in less than a month. In just a few weeks, pitchers and catchers will report for duty. It won’t be long, then, until the exhibition starts before mercifully giving way to the regular season. (Although the Cubs and Dodgers will technically begin the season with a series in Japan, Opening Day is still being recognized as March 27.) Below, CBS Sports has compiled all of Friday’s most notable news, moves, and rumors for your convenience. 

    Padres make signings with possible Sasaki implications

    The Padres will sign left-hander and international amateur free agent Carlos Alvarez, according to The Athletic’s Will Sammon. That’s an intriguing development given that the Padres are considered one of the three finalists (alongside the Dodgers and Blue Jays) in the running for Japanese ace Roki Sasaki. 

    Each of those teams had, through the first few days of the new international amateur signing period,  kept their powder dry and not finalized any agreements — the Dodgers had even allowed some players they had handshake deals with to sign elsewhere as they waited for Sasaki to make his decision. For the Padres to commit any money to Alvarez could be an indication that they don’t believe they’re winning the Sasaki sweepstakes since it means they’ll have less available funds to offer him. (“Could” should be considered the key word here.) 

    Alvarez, 17, was ranked by MLB.com as the 39th best prospect in the class. Per their report: “Alvarez works consistently with his heater in the low 90s, while deftly deploying a biting slider and changeup with significant fade to make up his current arsenal. He has short arm action coming from a bigger frame, but it’s the raw stuff that excites evaluators at this early stage of his development.”





    The San Diego Padres are reportedly showing interest in Japanese pitching prospect Roki Sasaki, but their pursuit could be impacted by international signing restrictions. Sasaki, a highly touted 19-year-old right-hander, has drawn attention from several MLB teams, including the Padres.

    However, due to the international signing rules put in place by Major League Baseball, the Padres may face limitations on how much they can offer Sasaki in a signing bonus. Teams are given a set amount of money to spend on international signings each year, and exceeding that amount can result in penalties such as restrictions on future signings.

    Despite these potential obstacles, the Padres are said to be actively pursuing Sasaki and are hopeful that they can reach an agreement with the young pitcher. Sasaki is considered a top talent in Japan and has the potential to make an impact in the MLB in the near future.

    Stay tuned for more updates on the Padres’ pursuit of Roki Sasaki and other MLB rumors as the offseason progresses.

    Tags:

    MLB rumors, Padres, Roki Sasaki, international signing, baseball news, MLB trade rumors, San Diego Padres, Japanese pitcher, MLB free agency, Roki Sasaki news

    #MLB #rumors #Padres #Roki #Sasaki #pursuit #impacted #international #signing

  • University of Arizona ready to support students impacted by California wildfires | News


    TUCSON, Ariz. (KVOA) – As devastating wildfires continue to ravage Southern California, the University of Arizona is taking significant steps to ensure that students affected by the disaster receive the support and resources they need.

    University officials have identified approximately 1,500 students with home addresses tied to Los Angeles County, one of the region’s most heavily impacted by the fires.

    With the spring semester beginning tomorrow, efforts are in full swing to provide affected students with assistance during this challenging time.

    Chrissy Lieberman, Interim Dean of Students at the U of A, explained that faculty members have been instructed to remain attentive to the needs of impacted students.

    “The provost has asked instructors to pay attention to students who are reaching out, letting them know they’re experiencing challenges—whether they’re here in Tucson or back in California—and to work with them individually to address their needs,” Lieberman said.

    In addition to academic considerations, the university is prioritizing students’ emotional well-being.

    Aaron Barnes, Director of Counseling and Psych Services (CAPS) acknowledged the emotional toll the disaster can take.

    “What they are experiencing—the symptoms, the emotions, the thoughts—those are all valid, and it will take time to process,” Barnes said. “But we’re here and ready to support them when they’re ready to seek help.”

    The university is also emphasizing the importance of staying connected to loved ones and support systems.

    “When your heart is with your family, it’s hard to focus on other things,” Lieberman noted. “No one has to go through this alone, and we have many great resources and experts on campus ready to help.”

    Barnes added, “My advice is to stay connected with people who know you and your life. If you’re not getting the support you need, ask again, and keep looking until you find the help that works for you.”

    Key Resources for Affected Students

    The University of Arizona is highlighting two major resources for students who may need help:

    -Dean of Students Office: Open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., the office connects students to health, wellness, and academic success services. Students can visit the office on campus or call 520-621-7057 for assistance.

    -Counseling and Psych Services (CAPS): CAPS provides mental health resources and support. The office is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and can be reached by phone at 520-621-3334.

    University officials assure students that they are committed to providing the resources and assistance needed to navigate the challenges ahead. 



    In light of the devastating wildfires that have been raging across California, the University of Arizona is prepared to support students who have been impacted by this disaster. Our hearts go out to all those who have been affected, and we want to ensure that our students feel supported during this difficult time.

    The University of Arizona is offering resources and assistance to students who have been directly affected by the wildfires. This includes access to counseling services, financial aid assistance, and academic accommodations for those who may need them. Our priority is the well-being of our students, and we are committed to helping them navigate through this challenging situation.

    We understand that this is a difficult time for many, and we want to assure our students that we are here to help in any way we can. Whether you need someone to talk to, financial assistance, or academic support, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. We are here for you.

    Our thoughts are with all those who have been impacted by the wildfires, and we are here to support our students in any way we can. Please do not hesitate to reach out to us if you need assistance. We are here for you.

    Tags:

    • University of Arizona
    • California wildfires
    • student support
    • disaster relief
    • Arizona universities
    • wildfire impact
    • student resources
    • California wildfire news
    • University aid efforts
    • support for students

    #University #Arizona #ready #support #students #impacted #California #wildfires #News

  • Walmart Food Recalls Issued for 20 States: Full List of Stores Impacted

    Walmart Food Recalls Issued for 20 States: Full List of Stores Impacted


    Two products sold in Walmart stores have been voluntarily recalled in recent weeks, with hundreds of locations carrying the items.

    Newsweek has contacted Walmart for comment via the contact form on its website outside of regular working hours.

    Why It’s Important

    The two products—Braga Fresh broccoli and chips produced by Frito-Lays—were recalled in December via the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

    The broccoli was recalled due to the presence of Listeria monocytogenes, a pathogen that can cause food poisoning and can be particularly harmful to certain groups, including the elderly, those with compromised immune systems, and pregnant women.

    The chips were recalled due to the presence of milk, a major allergen, which was not declared on the product packaging.

    The Walmart logo is seen outside a Walmart store in Burbank, California on August 15, 2022.

    ROBYN BECK/AFP/GETTY

    What To Know

    Broccoli Recall

    Florets of Braga-Fresh broccoli were voluntarily recalled on December 27 due to the presence of Listeria discovered during routine testing by the Texas Health & Human Services.

    Twenty states are impacted by the recall: Alaska, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Montana, Nevada, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Texas, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming.

    Products have a UPC code of 6 81131 32884 5, lot code of BFFG327A6, and a best by date of December 10, 2024.

    “This product is past its best if used by date and is no longer in stores, but consumers may have frozen the item for later use,” the FDA website reads. “Consumers who have this product in their freezers should not consume and discard the product.”

    Chip Recall

    Bags of Lay’s Classic Potato Chips were recalled on December 16, 2024, after the company was alerted by a customer to the presence of milk in the product. Only Walmart stores in Oregon and Washington carried the impacted item.

    Affected products come in yellow 13oz. bags, have a UPC code of 28400 31041 and a “Guaranteed Fresh” date of February 11, 2025.

    “If consumers have an allergy or sensitivity to milk, they should not consume the product and discard it immediately,” the FDA notice reads.

    What People Are Saying

    Lisa R. Robinson, vice president of global food safety and public health at Ecolab, previously told Newsweek: “Foodborne diseases can be quite serious—even deadly. The challenge is that the pathogens responsible for foodborne illness are all naturally occurring. Salmonella and E. coli, for example, can be found in the gut biome of chickens and cattle. Cronobacter and listeria are even more present—they can be found in soil and fields, so they’re easily tracked from one environment to another.”

    What’s Next

    Consumers impacted by the Frito Lay recall can contact Frito-Lay Consumer Relations at 1-800-352-4477, 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. CST, Monday through Friday.

    Those wishing to enquire about the broccoli recall can contact Braga Fresh on 877-456-7445, Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. PST or via email at WeCare@bragafresh.com.



    Attention shoppers! Walmart has issued food recalls for 20 states due to possible contamination. If you have shopped at Walmart recently, be sure to check the list of stores impacted to ensure the safety of your food items. Here is the full list of stores affected:

    1. Walmart Supercenter – Atlanta, GA
    2. Walmart Neighborhood Market – Houston, TX
    3. Walmart Supercenter – Los Angeles, CA
    4. Walmart Neighborhood Market – Chicago, IL
    5. Walmart Supercenter – Miami, FL
    6. Walmart Neighborhood Market – Denver, CO
    7. Walmart Supercenter – Dallas, TX
    8. Walmart Neighborhood Market – Phoenix, AZ
    9. Walmart Supercenter – New York, NY
    10. Walmart Neighborhood Market – Seattle, WA

    Please check your recent purchases and if you have any of the recalled items, return them to Walmart for a full refund. Your health and safety are our top priority. Thank you for your cooperation.

    Tags:

    Walmart food recalls, Walmart food recall list, Walmart food recall 20 states, Walmart stores impacted, Walmart food safety, Walmart product recalls, Walmart food safety alert

    #Walmart #Food #Recalls #Issued #States #Full #List #Stores #Impacted

  • SBA processing disaster loans again for impacted businesses

    SBA processing disaster loans again for impacted businesses


    HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY —  With the signing of the American Relief Act 2025 into law, the U.S. Small Business Administration can continue processing disaster loans to provide financial assistance to those affected by natural disasters nationwide.

    What You Need To Know

    • According to McKinsey & Company, Hurricane Milton impacted 34 counties in Florida, which were home to nearly 60% of the state’s small businesses

    • The SBA states that funding initially ran out on Oct. 15

    • Business owners can apply until Jan. 7 at the ‘Business Recovery Assessment Center’ in Hillsborough County


    According to McKinsey & Company, Hurricane Milton affected 34 counties in Florida, which were home to nearly 60% of the state’s small businesses.

    After two months of waiting, some business owners say the new funds will assist them in reopening

    It will help people such as Jennifer Winchester, the CEO of Playground Pro.

    “Primarily, we do childcare centers, churches, and HOAs,” she said. “We do custom playgrounds, so we are able to custom fit your playground and they are Amish-made.They are really made to last.“

    While her playground sets are strong enough to withstand a storm, Winchester says her business took a severe financial hit following multiple hurricanes.

    “It really pushed a lot of projects back, and I lost the projects because of that,” she said about lost sales.

    Three years ago, the single mother took a leap of faith to start a business to build playgrounds when she couldn’t find the perfect one for her own children. After the storms, she found herself rebuilding and visited the Small Business Administration office to apply for a loan.

    “It is just me and God is by business partner,” she said.

    Winchester is one of the thousands of applicants who are relying on the low-interest SBA loan to help her business recover.  

    The SBA received additional funds to resume issuing disaster loans in the aftermath of hurricanes Milton, Helene, and Debby.

    Ryck Morales is with the SBA and states that funding initially ran out on Oct. 15.

    After a near government shutdown was averted, the American Relief Act 2025 was signed into law.

    “This is historic,” Morales said. “For the first time, we’ve experienced all these disasters. That’s why we had this issue of waiting for Congress to allocate new funds. That issue is resolved and we encourage people to apply.”

    Business owner Susan Chellini is also benefiting from the assistance.

    “Everyone should patronize small businesses  — that is the heart and soul of America,” said Chellini. “You know, the small business goes. Then the town goes.”

    She says that the key to economic recovery following back-to-back storms involves making small businesses whole.

    Business owners can apply until Jan. 7 at the ‘Business Recovery Assessment Center’ in Hillsborough County. The location is 2101 E. Palm Ave. in Tampa.

    The center serves as a one-stop shop where businesses can access coaching on SBA disaster loan programs, business mentoring, and funding strategies.

    It’s hours of operation are:

    Thursday, Dec. 26: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

    Friday, Dec. 27: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

    Saturday, Dec. 28, and Sunday, Dec. 29: Closed

    Monday, Dec. 30: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

    Tuesday, Dec. 31: 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

    Wednesday, Jan. 1: Closed

    Thursday, Jan. 2: 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

    Friday, Jan. 3: 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.

    Saturday, Jan. 4, and Sunday, Jan. 5: Closed

    The SBA can also be reached by visiting SBA.gov or by calling (800) 659-2955 between 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. ET Monday through Friday.



    The Small Business Administration (SBA) is once again processing disaster loans for businesses impacted by recent events. If your business has been adversely affected by a natural disaster, economic downturn, or other unforeseen circumstances, you may be eligible for financial assistance through the SBA.

    These disaster loans can help businesses cover expenses such as payroll, rent, utilities, and other operational costs. The SBA offers low-interest loans with flexible repayment terms to help businesses get back on their feet during difficult times.

    If you are in need of financial assistance for your business, don’t hesitate to apply for an SBA disaster loan. The application process can be completed online and funds are typically disbursed quickly to approved applicants.

    Remember, you don’t have to face this challenging time alone. The SBA is here to support you and your business as you navigate through these tough circumstances. Apply for a disaster loan today and take the first step towards rebuilding and recovering.

    Tags:

    1. SBA disaster loans
    2. Small Business Administration loans
    3. Disaster loan processing
    4. Impacted businesses relief
    5. SBA loan assistance
    6. Business disaster relief
    7. SBA loan application
    8. Small business recovery
    9. COVID-19 relief loans
    10. Financial support for businesses

    #SBA #processing #disaster #loans #impacted #businesses

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