Ontario to provide disaster aid for June storm flood victims

Ontario residents who were affected by flooding from spring storms may be able get some financial help from the province to cover their losses.

The Ontario municipal affairs ministry announced on Thursday that disaster recovery assistance has been made available for residents who suffered property damage from heavy rain that fell on June 22 and 23.

In a news release, the ministry said it has "activated" its disaster recovery assistance program for residents who live in the municipalities of:

• Adjala-Tosorontio.
• Grand Valley.
• Mapleton.
• Minto.
• Mono.
• New Tecumseth.
• Woolwich.

The program is intended for residents whose insurance companies denied claims due to the flooding.

100-year storm

Mark Cripps, press secretary for Ontario Municipal Affairs Minister Bill Mauro, said ministry staff assessed the damage and determined help was needed. The rainfall, classified by the Nottawasaga Conservation Authority as a once-in-a-100-year storm, affected more than 400 homes and small businesses.

"No receipt is too silly," Cripps said Thursday. "What this program does is it provides basic funds. It's not going to replace a $3,000 fridge in your basement, but it will help you get back on your feet."

He said residents, small businesses, farmers and not-for-profit organizations may be eligible. Costs associated with "emergency and recovery," including motel costs, may be covered.

In the case of a residence, the program applies to a primary residence and its basic contents. In the case of a small business, farm and not-for-profit organization, the program applies to the premises of the organization.

Cripps said the province is closely monitoring other areas in Ontario that are experiencing flooding and it may activate the program in these areas.

For more information and guidelines, go to ontario.ca/DisasterAssistance or call toll-free 1-844-780-8925.