Homeowners can apply for flooding grants after council calls rainstorm a disaster

Hamilton city council has declared an April 20 rainstorm that flooded parts of Dundas a disaster, unlocking thousands in compassionate grants for homeowners who suffered losses.

Dundassuffered flooding and mudslides this month when a full month of rain fell on the town in one day. Water flowed like rapids down residential side streets, and tree limbs clogged culverts around the Tim Hortons on King Street East.

With the compassionate grants, residents can receive up to $1,000 to help cover damages from the rainstorm. The city has established the grants through the Residential Municipal Disaster Relief Assistance Program.

Arlene VanderBeek, Ward 13 councillor, moved the motion Wednesday. The compassionate grants applies to homeowners whose basements were flooded as a direct result of the storm. The deadline for applying is Aug. 31.

Dundaswas the most affected by the rainstorm, but anyone who lives inHamilton canapply.

"Please tell your neighbours to get the word out so that we can help," said Mayor Fred Eisenberger in a statement.

Anyone interested can call 1-866-596-2242 to reach the program administrators, Cunningham Lindsey Canada.