The Ontario government has activated the Disaster Recovery Assistance for Ontarians program in flood-affected areas in the communities of Chatham and Thamesville, according to Chatham-Kent municipal officials.
The provincial made the announcement Friday afternoon and said that “the floods in Chatham and Thamesville were caused by heavy rainfall and warm temperatures that melted deep snow in the Thames River watershed. At its peak, the river was more than 5 meters above its normal level.”
The government added they are closely monitoring other areas experiencing flooding and may activate the program in these areas as flood impacts continue to be assessed in the coming days and weeks.
Affected individuals, small businesses and not-for-profit organizations that have experienced property damage or loss as a result of this disaster may be eligible to receive help with emergency and recovery expenses. The program provides reimbursement of expenses incurred but may also offer interim payments to those who need upfront help.
According to the municipality, the program applies to a primary residence and its basic contents, or to a main small business, farm or not-for-profit organization. Damage from sewer backup is not eligible under the program except under special provisions for low-income households.
More information and detailed program guidelines are available at ontario.ca/DisasterAssistance or call toll-free 1-844-780-8925.
To view more information on the affected areas, visit this site:
The province will hold a public information session in the municipality. Details will be released as soon as they are finalized.
Bill Mauro, Minister of Municipal Affairs who toured the flooded areas Monday said, “I commend the hard work and cooperation among local emergency workers, municipal leaders, volunteers and residents to ensure the safety of those affected by the flooding in their communities.”
Chatham-Kent Mayor Randy Hope praised the quick action by the province.
“Our goal is to help those affected by the flood to get things back to normal as soon as possible and I’m glad the province and Minister Mauro acted in a quick and decisive manner. I encourage anyone who suffered flood damage to contact the province regarding eligibility.”
