Robert: The Province announces financial relief following Hurricane Fiona

Today Premier Andrew Furey announced relief is imminent for those devastated by Hurricane Fiona.

“The devastation experienced by Newfoundlanders and Labradorians is unimaginable. The impacts are far-reaching, with families, communities, businesses and non-profit organizations having to pick up the pieces,” said the Premier. “Our government recognizes the severity of the losses and is assuring affected residents that immediate supports are available to those who need them as quickly as possible. The $30 million being provided today is meant to help people in starting the recovery process from this devastating event.”

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador has allocated up to $30 million to support the Hurricane Fiona Financial Assistance Program. Under the program, immediate one-time financial assistance will be offered to eligible Newfoundlanders and Labradorians:

• $1,000 per household who temporarily evacuated from their principal residence during the storm and have returned by September 30, 2022; or
• $10,000 per household who have been displaced from their principal residence and have been unable to return by September 30, 2022.

An additional $500,000 will be provided to the Canadian Red Cross to administer on behalf of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, nominally allocated as follows:

• $250,000 to support claims for immediate assistance, for example removal of debris, personal items;
• $250,000 to provide temporary accommodation assistance.

There will also be $500,000 distributed among impacted communities on the southwest coast of the island, based on needs assessment.

Residents will be required to apply for funding under the Hurricane Fiona Financial Assistance Program via the Canadian Red Cross. Details on the application process and forms will be released in the coming days.