Province Announces Disaster Relief Funding for Lakeshore Residents Impacted by August Rainfall Event

The municipality is pleased to announce that the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing has approved eligibility for Lakeshore residents, within a designated activation area, for the Disaster Recovery Assistance for Ontarians (DRAO) program.

This program, run by the Province, assists with emergency expenses and costs to repair or replace essential property not covered by insurance, following the significant rainfall event in August.

Homeowners and residential tenants, small owner-operated businesses, farmers, and not-for-profit organizations in the activation area, (including Stoney Point/Pointe-aux-Roches and Lighthouse Cove) that were affected by the storm and power outage on August 23, 2023, can apply for this program. This will not only help residents who experienced flooding but also those who sustained property damage from the storm (i.e. trees downed on roofs and fences).

"This is great news for residents in the affected area and we appreciate the support from the Province of Ontario, as well as Lakeshore staff who helped coordinate this program with the Province,” said Mayor Tracey Bailey. “Responding to disasters like the one we experienced this summer is truly a team effort, and we hope everyone who was impacted takes advantage of the opportunity."

For applications or to find out if you are eligible, review the full program guidelines available at Ontario.ca/DisasterAssistance, call 1-877-822-0116 or email disasterassistance@ontario.ca after speaking with your private insurance provider.

Residents will have until Wednesday, March 27, 2024, to apply for assistance through the program.

The full announcement from the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing can be found here.