The Town of Bracebridge is looking for residents affected by the recent spring flooding to participate in the provincial Disaster Recovery Assistance for Ontarians (DRAO) program.
The program helps residents recover costs following a natural disaster. It may be activated for damage to private property if a sudden and unexpected natural event, such as a flood or tornado, causes widespread and costly damage in the area.
According to officials, the program provides financial assistance of up to $250,000 per application, subject to a $500 deductible, which may be waived for low-income households. The program also reimburses up to 90 per cent of eligible costs, with limits applying to emergency expenses, household appliances, and furnishings.
Town officials said following significant flooding experienced across the region in April, the province is working to assess flood-related damage to private properties.
As part of the process, the Town is working to identify a representative sample of impacted properties for review, as the province is seeking to assess a limited number of properties during the review process.
Property criteria for consideration include primary residences that sustained damage caused by river or creek overflow or overland flooding. Cottages and seasonal properties are not eligible.
The program also considers damage to critical components like furnaces, hot water tanks, or structural elements.
The town said to participate, property owners must consent to a site visit and review their damages and insurance coverage with officials.
Residents willing to participate are asked to contact fire@bracebridge.ca or contact Mike Peake, Deputy Fire Chief by calling 705-645-8258 x. 3402 by Monday, June 8. Site visits will be scheduled in coordination with the property owners after that date.
