Small business owners who suffered financial and business losses following British Columbia’s worst wildfire season can now apply for additional financial assistance.
“The continued success of local businesses and the people who support them is key to a swift and effective recovery from any disaster,” Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General Mike Farnworth said, in a press release. “This financial assistance underscores the ongoing commitment of the Province and the Canadian Red Cross to supporting post-wildfire recovery efforts.”
Farnworth also noted that supporting small businesses and First Nations communities will ensure that, “B.C. communities are more resilient to future events.”
The province is partnering with the Canadian Red Cross to provide additional funds, along with other forms of assistance to support First Nations communities and not-for-profit organizations.
Financial assistance is designed to at least partially compensate for uninsured losses, insurance deductibles, minor repairs, clean-up, equipment and occupational training expenses. Eligibility will be based on individual needs and determined based on an application process managed through the Canadian Red Cross.
“Although the emergency phase of the wildfires has passed, the road to recovery can be long,” said Kimberley Nemrava of the Canadian Red Cross. “Thanks to generous individuals, governments, community groups and corporate partners, the Red Cross can provide this Support to Small Business program that will further assist people and their communities to recover after this disaster.”
Applications for the second phase of the small business program will be accepted until April 6, 2018. For information concerning eligibility requirements, please go to: www.redcross.ca/bcfires/smallbusiness
Quick Facts:
- Phase 1 of the support to small business program provided $1,500 to each eligible applicant and received more than 2,900 applications.
- Phase 2 of the program will contribute up to a maximum of $18,500 for eligible businesses.
- Not-for-profit organizations may also apply for additional financial assistance of up to $8,500. The amounts allocated will be based on individual needs, which will be determined through the application process.
