The Nova Scotia government has opened up applications for disaster financial assistance to residents who have been severely affected by the heavy rain and windstorm that hit the province on November 23, 2021.
The financial assistance program supports municipalities, small businesses, not-for-profit groups, and individuals whose losses are not covered by their insurer. According to an official statement by the provincial Emergency Management Office, the program will cover uninsurable losses of up to $200,000 per household, and that there is no deductible.
“We know many Nova Scotians are dealing with storm-related damage, and this program will help ensure that they receive the support they need,” said minister of Municipal Affairs and housing minister responsible for the Emergency Management Office John Lohr. “This storm created a lot of fear and stress for many people. We want them to have peace of mind and be able to move forward.”
CBC News reported that NS has earmarked a total of $3.5 million for the program; the news outlet also said that most of the disaster relief money will likely go to those who lived at the Indian Gardens Trailer Park in Antigonish.
The Canadian Red Cross will administer the funding on behalf of the province to eligible households, the Emergency Management Office said. The province has been working with the non-profit since the storm, a statement said, and both groups will continue to work together to ensure all eligible households receive support.
“We’ve gained extensive experience in recent years at rapidly distributing emergency financial aid on behalf of provincial governments after disasters like flooding and welcome the chance to help Nova Scotians the same way,” said Canadian Red Cross Nova Scotia provincial director Christina Baert-Wilson.
While the program is open to anyone eligible that has suffered uninsurable damage following the weather event, the provincial government has encouraged everyone to continue assessing the damage to their property, keep all receipts, take pictures and video, and work with their own insurers.
Applications for the disaster financial assistance program are available online, and will also be made available at Nova Scotia centres, MLA offices, and municipal offices. The province also said that NS residents may also call 211 for applications.
