Watch the video above: Saskatchewan flood relief efforts
REGINA – Earlier this week, Premier Brad Wall suggested the price tag for flooding in Saskatchewan could be around $360 million. But just as damage estimates rise, so do generous donations.
The Red Cross is helping about 330 residents, mainly in the southeast corner of the province.
FULL COVERAGE: Prairie farmers, communities tackle flooding
The organization has had numerous requests from communities for help and it’s now accepting donations.
“In 2011, we provided assistance to different communities rebuilding ball diamonds, or providing sump pumps, so for future events they would be ready,” said Kim MacLean with the Saskatchewan Red Cross.
“We did some basic needs for folks that were struggling.”
The City of Regina is hoping a federal program, administered by the province, will help pay for flood damage in areas that insurance doesn’t cover.
City council voted unanimously Wednesday to submit an application to the provincial disaster assistance program (PDAP).
“This is a process. We expect it to go through,” said Regina mayor Michael Fougere. “We moved forward as soon as we could to make sure we got that application in as soon as possible.”
PDAP is often used to pay for overland flooding where, for example, water is seeping through basement windows.
Residents shouldn’t expect the program to cover luxuries, like cabins or cottages.
“The program isn’t there to restore all our toys. It’s really there to pick people up after a disaster,” said Jay O’Connor, manager of emergency management.
“To help them get back on their feet and get them moving again. That’s what the program focuses on.”
NEED TO KNOW: Important Saskatchewan flood contact numbers
In the meantime, the Pet Valu stores in Regina, Moose Jaw, Weyburn and Yorkton are accepting donations for pets that have been affected.
As of Wednesday afternoon, the Regina and Moose Jaw stores had collected enough food to feed about 200 animals.
“We have a whole truckload donated right now plus we have our donation bin,” said Pet Valu employee Destiny Fink. “We have bags of food, treats, and collars.”
The donations will likely be delivered to Carnduff and Wolseley on Friday.
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