TORONTO – The Ontario government is taking further action to support the community of Wheatley by providing an additional $3.8 million in funding. The funding will help evacuated residents with immediate needs such as housing and food, and ensure the municipality can continue to deliver emergency services.
“We’ve all been moved by incredible acts of kindness and generosity as residents of Wheatley support their friends and neighbours,” said Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario. “I want Wheatley’s residents to know that they can count on our government’s support too. We will keep going until we’ve determined the cause of the gas leak, and in the meantime, we are providing this additional funding to help alleviate some of the burdens for those who have been displaced from their homes.”
The new funding builds on the $2 million Wheatley Business Recovery Grant announced in September to help businesses resume operations. The Ontario government will also continue to work closely with the municipality to provide technical support and guidance for the investigation into the source of the gas leak and to identify mitigation options.
“Wheatley is a strong, close community that has displayed remarkable resilience during an incredibly challenging time,” said Greg Rickford, Minister of Northern Development, Mines, Natural Resources and Forestry. “Residents are rallying together to support each other, but the ongoing state of emergency is creating financial hardships for many people. That’s why we are providing $3.8 million in additional funding to help the municipality and residents get through this difficult time.”
“Our government is committed to supporting the people of Wheatley and helping the community recover from the devastating impacts of the explosion,” said Steve Clark, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing. “I want to thank municipal staff, volunteers and everyone on the ground for their ongoing support to those displaced by this event. We’ll continue working closely with the municipality to keep local residents safe and ensure their day-to-day needs are met.”
An explosion at a building in Wheatley, a community in the municipality of Chatham-Kent, occurred on August 26, 2021. An investigation into the cause of the explosion is ongoing.