Disaster Relief fund publishes aid rules and procedures - some people who need immediate funding to get through the month could see money by September 15

News 100 redBy Staff

September 3, 2014

BURLINGTON, ON.

 

The Burlington Community Foundation released the different aid packages that will be available and the processes they expect to follow. The information was released at a media event at Central Arena Wednesday morning.

What types of funds are available to victims?
The BCF Flood Disaster Relief Committee has identified two types of financial assistance for flood victims:
1. Advance funds to help with costs associated with emergency living expenses
2. Assistance for Losses and Damages for more complex requirements

What are the details of the Advance funds?
Advance funds of up to $1,000 will be made available to victims who have no insurance coverage for emergency additional living expenses. Eligible costs are: evacuation costs, accommodation and meals, and essential clothing.

How do I make an Advance funds claim?
Applicants are asked to complete an Advance Funds Claims Package that includes filling out a form, attaching receipts, and providing all requested information. The package must be submitted to the BCF Flood Disaster Relief Committee at Burlington Community Foundation, 3380 South Service Road, Unit 107, Burlington, Ontario, L7N 3J5 by October 4, 2014.

The Gazette will report on th Disaster Relief Fund regularly.The form can be found at www.burlingtonfoundation.org or residents can call 905 639 0744 ext.223 to arrange for an Advance Claims Package to be mailed, picked up or delivered. Our Committee is committed to assisting people in completing the form to expedite the claims process if that is requested.

Advance funding is being made available through generous community donations received from Burlington friends, neighbours, businesses and organizations.

How long will it take to receive Advance funding?
The Committee will work quickly to ensure these funds begin to be disbursed as rapidly as possible, and plans to start approving funds by September 15, 2014.

What are the details of the Assistance for Losses and Damages funding?
The Assistance for Losses and Damages funding is designed to assist victims in greatest need with more extensive losses and damages, and who were either uninsured or underinsured for their building and/or contents. Homeowners and tenants, small businesses, non-profit organizations and farms can apply. Applicants will be required to fill out a more complete form that will be made available at www.burlingtonfoundation.org by September 30th. At that time, more information outlining what expenses are eligible will also be provided.

How much money will victims receive?
The amount of funding provided depends on two variables – how much money is raised in the community during our fundraising campaign and whether the City of Burlington’s application to the Ontario Disaster Relief Assistance Program (ODRAP) for 2 to 1 funding is approved.
It is important to note that throughout our fundraising campaign the City and our MPPs will be communicating with the province on the status of the ODRAP application.

The Committee will review status of the 100 day community fundraising campaign on October 4th, at which time they expect to be in a position to determine how much funding is currently available to provide some further financial assistance to those in greatest need. Victims will be asked to submit an Application for Assistance for Losses and Damages funding with a specified deadline date provided. This process is more complete and will take more time. It requires the services of an insurance adjuster who will assist in determining the level of damage and relief. The claims process will adhere to ODRAP guidelines to ensure our process meets ODRAP’s terms and conditions.

How will the BCF Flood Disaster Relief Committee determine eligibility for Assistance for Losses and Damages funding?
The Committee will work to provide some financial assistance to victims in greatest need and will work closely with the insurance adjuster to determine and communicate the process, timelines for review and decisions on funds provided.

Who is the insurance adjuster?
Following ODRAP guidelines, the Committee is currently requesting three quotes from reputable and qualified insurance adjusting companies. We expect to make a decision by September 30th.
How often will the Committee communicate to flood victims, and the community at-large, to provide updates and new information?
The Committee is committed to communicating regularly to flood victims and community members. We will post updates on the BCF Flood Relief website at www.burlingtonfoundation.org every two weeks, or more frequently when important information becomes available.

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