Recovery in action: Support for residents recovering from the extreme weather event

From financial assistance to furniture replacement and recovery guidance, help continues to be available for residents recovering from the July 1 extreme weather event.

Recovery takes time, and no one has to navigate it alone. 

For many residents, the immediate aftermath of the July 1 extreme weather event has passed, but recovery continues. Some households are facing unexpected expenses, replacing damaged belongings, navigating insurance claims, dealing with repairs, or managing other financial pressures caused by the storm.

Recovery looks different for every household and supports are available to help residents through the recovery process. Whether you need financial assistance, help replacing essential items, guidance on rebuilding, or support navigating available services, help remains available.  

Financial assistance may be available 

Residents affected by flooding may be eligible for financial assistance to help with storm-related costs and recovery needs. 

The Compassionate Grant Program provides a one-time $1,000 payment to eligible property owners and tenants affected by flooding caused by a sewer backup. For more information about the program and how to apply, visit ottawa.ca.  

Property tax relief 

The City of Ottawa may cancel, reduce or refund part of the property taxes levied on properties where a building was destroyed or damaged significantly. Learn more and submit an application form: Property taxes for damaged structures.  

Support programs 

Support programs for residents affected by the July 1 extreme weather event include: 

• Compassionate Grant Program
• Emergency Assistance
• Disaster Recovery Assistance for Ontarians (DRAO)
• Essential Health and Social Supports (EHSS)
• Support for residents receiving Ontario Works (OW) or the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) 

Learn more about the programs available: Support programs.

Replacing essential household items 

Photo credit: Matthew House Ottawa

Residents whose furniture and household items were damaged by flooding may be eligible for help through the Furniture Assistance Initiative, a temporary program led by the City of Ottawa with Matthew House Ottawa and Habitat for Humanity Greater Ottawa. 

Eligible households are being contacted directly by City staff. Residents affected by the July 1 extreme weather event who need furniture assistance but have not been contacted should call 3-1-1. 

Residents can request assistance even if they are not yet ready to receive furniture. Learn more or donate gently used furniture through Matthew House Ottawa by visiting the Furniture Assistance Initiative webpage. 

Recovery information and support 

Many residents need help with insurance claims, legal questions, social services, and other recovery needs. Through wellness visits, service requests, outreach, and information sessions, the City and its partners continue to connect residents with available supports. 

Available resources 

• Recovery information sessions
• Insurance and claims information  
• Community health and social services
• Food and basic needs support for eligible residents
• Mental health and wellness resources
• Personalized recovery support through the Canadian Red Cross

Repairs and rebuilding 

For many residents, recovery includes cleanup, repairs and rebuilding. Information and support are available to help residents understand permit requirements, safely clean up flood damage and access available assistance programs.  

Available resources 

• Information on disposing of storm-related waste
• Building Code Services flood recovery FAQs 
• Ottawa Public Health guidance on preventing injury and illness while cleaning up
• Free clean-up kits available while supplies last at the following locations:
• John G. Mlacak Centre, 2500 Campeau Drive – Main entrance lobby
• Carleton Heights Community Centre, 1665 Apeldoorn Avenue – Main entrance
• For assistance with storm-related cleanup, call 3-1-1 or submit a service request online.  

Note: Following a City Council vote on July 15, fees for building permits and demolition permits have been suspended for the repair, reconstruction or demolition of homes and buildings damaged by the July 1 extreme weather event. More information: What to do after a basement flood.  

Not sure where to start? 

You do not need to figure it out alone. 

If you are unsure what assistance may be available, visit ottawa.ca/HeavyRainfall or call 3-1-1. City staff and community partners can help connect you with the services and supports that best match your situation. Recovery continues, and help remains available.