The new Disaster Recovery Program will provide financial support to residents and business owners for uninsurable damages, as well as help restore municipal infrastructure.
“The devastation caused by the flooding we saw in Fort McMurray and throughout the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo and Mackenzie County has impacted thousands of lives, washing away priceless memories and losing the security of your home or business. These immense challenges are only made worse by the ongoing pandemic, and I know that many people are overwhelmed and worried for the future. I want to tell you that your government is here for you. All of Alberta is here for you and, together, we will get through this and rebuild.”
“We understand the challenges northern Alberta is facing right now and we are committed to providing the support the region needs to rebuild and recover from these floods. Dealing with this disaster amid a pandemic makes this situation uniquely challenging, but the people of northern Alberta are determined and strong. We will be there to support them, and their local leaders, in their rebuilding efforts.”
“Today’s announcement from the Government of Alberta is great news in support of our community and the people impacted by this historic flood. While we are just beginning our path to recovery, this commitment demonstrates how Albertans always come together to help each other during challenging times. We thank Premier Kenney, Minister Madu and our MLAs for their timely support to our residents when it is needed most. Fort McMurray and our region has persevered before and we will once again.”
“Our community of Fort Vermilion has experienced a devastating event and lives have been turned upside down. Cleanup efforts are underway with many organizations and volunteer groups stepping up to help our residents. We thank Premier Kenney, Minister Madu, our local MLA Dan Williams, and the rest of the provincial government for providing financial support to the municipality and the affected residents in this great time of need, through the Disaster Recovery Program.”
The recent warm temperatures and ice jams in northern Alberta caused overland flooding and sewer backup, forcing more than 14,000 Albertans from their homes. Most have been allowed to return home, but more than 3,000 remain displaced due to significant damages to their property.
“I’m grateful that even in the midst of an unprecedented global health emergency our government is committing significant resources to help Fort McMurray get back on its feet. Today’s announcement recognizes the importance of our city and our region to the rest of the province, and I want to thank the Premier and the rest of cabinet for getting this program in place so quickly. We are Fort McMurray Strong.”
“Our region has faced many challenges in recent years, and I am grateful to the Premier and cabinet for recognizing the impact this flood has had, and moving so quickly to put this Disaster Recovery Program in place. This funding will allow us to rebuild and move on.”
“This Disaster Recovery Program comes as welcome news for Mackenzie County. Northern Alberta has been through a lot, and this funding will ensure we can recover and rebuild after this latest flooding event. I am proud to represent a government that will be there for families and businesses in their time of need.”
Disaster Recovery Program
The Disaster Recovery Program helps communities recover from undue hardship as a result of an extraordinary disaster. In order to be considered extraordinary, the disaster must meet certain criteria, such as a one-in-100-year event relating to rainfall, streamflow, ice jams, overland flood, wildfire or strong winds.
Homeowners, tenants, small businesses and agricultural operations are eligible to apply for funding that will go towards cleanup costs and repairing uninsurable damage to infrastructure and buildings.
How to apply for financial assistance for your home or property
Funding is available to communities to help those affected recover and rebuild following a disaster.
If your community is approved for a Disaster Recovery Program and you are eligible to receive funding, you can use the online application portal and submit your application beginning on May 11. To apply, or for more information on Disaster Recovery Programs and approvals, visit: alberta.ca/disaster-recovery-programs.aspx.
For municipalities outside of the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo and Mackenzie County, the hydrological data required to create a Disaster Recovery Program is not yet available and no decision has been made regarding the eligibility of these communities.
How to apply for emergency evacuation payments
Evacuees in the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo and Mackenzie County affected by spring flooding can apply online for emergency evacuation payments at: alberta.ca/emergency. To date, government has provided more than 7,400 Albertans with emergency evacuation payments totalling nearly $8 million.