Residents still feeling the effects of last fall’s heavy rains and flooding will be eligible for extra support from the Canadian Red Cross starting Feb. 1.
Senior levels of government have partnered with the Red Cross to provide “personalized wraparound services” that may include interim housing and assistance with basic needs.
“The recent floods in British Columbia have been devastating for individuals and communities throughout the province, and we know that there is a long road ahead to full recovery,” said Bill Blair, federal minister of emergency preparedness.
“We are pleased to partner with the Canadian Red Cross to help those whose lives have been impacted by the effects of floods.”
The program is to be funded by the 2021 Canadian Red Cross British Columbia Floods and Extreme Weather Appeal. More than $90 million was raised after the federal and provincial governments committed to matching donations.
As of Monday, the Red Cross had distributed more than $17 million in evacuation-related emergency financial assistance to more than 7,200 eligible households.
Record rainfall washed over southern B.C., causing mudslides, washouts and flooding. Several communities were flooded and thousands of properties were evacuated.
One of the hardest hit areas on Vancouver Island was the Cowichan Valley where in November damage assessments had to be conducted for hundreds of properties in the flood-impacted areas. Flood support centres run by Cowichan Tribes, Halalt First Nation, Penelakut Tribe and Cowichan Valley Regional District staff welcomed hundreds of people.
“Many people who were affected by the recent flooding haven’t been able to return home,” said Mike Farnworth, B.C.’s minister of public safety. “We are here for you, and we’re making sure people receive the support they need and for the length of time needed, including lodging, basic needs and mental-health supports.”
The support will include assessments to identify need and will complement local government and provincial efforts to assist people as they navigate the recovery process.
A Red Cross case manager will help households access existing government programs and develop a plan for recovery that can access additional funds to repair or rebuild their primary residences or relocate to a new community.
The Red Cross is reaching out to people who are already receiving emergency support services, or those that have indicated they would like to discuss recovery supports.
