Flood relief payments begin in Alberta

The first cheques have been cut and more than 1,900 applications are being processed after being accepted in 19 flood relief registration centres in southeastern Alberta over the past week.

“During my visit to Medicine Hat last weekend, I was deeply moved by the devastating effects of the flooding,” said Premier Ed Stelmach. “I met with people who lost everything they had and who will spend years rebuilding. That’s why we’ve moved with a Disaster Recovery Program that’s the largest in our province’s history. I want to assure residents that the funding is on its way to help them rebuild and get their lives back to normal as soon as possible.”

“We have started cutting cheques, with the first high priority cheques being hand delivered to residents who have lost everything,” said Hector Goudreau, Minister of Municipal Affairs.

“Although the registration centres are now closed, applications are still being accepted. Anyone who has not yet applied, but needs assistance should contact their local municipality to submit their claim.”

The $200-million 2010 Southern Alberta Disaster Recovery Program provided assistance to Albertans for severe overland flooding and groundwater seepage that followed a series of intense rainstorms from June 15-21.

In addition, the $3.5-million 2010 Spring South Eastern Alberta Disaster Recovery Program provided assistance for Albertans who experienced overland flooding due to extreme amounts of snow and rain from April 13-May 31.