Spring flooding in Central Ontario caused cottage-country communities to declare states of emergency last month, and now they’re left with the aftermath: a seven-figure clean-up bill to repair the damages.
The Ontario Disaster Relief Assistance Program (ODRAP) has offered funding to help pay for the millions of dollars in flood damage, but the affected communities still have their work cut out for them. Support from ODRAP for homeowners is based on a matching program. The province provides $2 for every $1 raised by the community. Let the fundraising begin!
The City of Kawartha Lakes has set up a trust fund for private donations, which qualify for a charitable donation receipt for gifts of $10 or more. Even private businesses are getting involved; Treetop Trekking in Huntsville is donating $20 from each ticket sold on May 26 to the Salvation Army for disaster relief.
In Bracebridge, the annual Tony Clement Charity Golf Classic will be raising money for flood victims on July 8. Meanwhile, the local Salvation Army is busy recruiting volunteers for the cause.
Over in Minden Hills, one of areas hit hardest by the flood, community members have organized a slew of spring and summer events to raise money for flood relief, including a yard sale, yoga classes, a Zumba day, and a good old-fashioned hootenanny.
Check out this full list of Minden flood fundraisers to find out how you can show your support.
