Disaster Recovery Assistance for Ontarians (DRAO) Program Activated for April 2026 Flooding – Lake St. John Area, Ramara

The Province of Ontario has announced that the Lake St. John area within the Township of Ramara has been designated as an activation area under the Disaster Recovery Assistance for Ontarians (DRAO) program for flooding that occurred in April 2026.

Residents and property owners are encouraged to review the DRAO website, including the official activation area map, to determine whether their property is located within the designated activation area. Eligibility for the program is determined by the Province of Ontario.

The purpose of the DRAO program is to return essential property to a basic level, make homes safe and habitable, and allow people to resume their livelihoods. The program is not intended to replace insurance and does not cover all costs.  The program is administered by the Province of Ontario, which determines applicant eligibility and all funding decisions.

Eligible private property owners may apply for assistance if they reside within the activation area, sustained damage as a result of flooding from lakes, rivers and creeks, and do not have insurance coverage for the damage or have insurance that is insufficient to cover eligible essential recovery costs.

Damage to secondary residences such as a cottage or other recreational property is ineligible. Damage from sewer backup is also not generally eligible under the program. Sewer backup is water that comes up through floor drains or other connections to the sewer system. Insurance for sewer backup is widely available for purchase as part of homeowners’ insurance policies. An exception is made for low-income households as defined by the guidelines. For information about low-income household guidelines, view additional help for low-income families. 

In addition, damage to basements and crawl spaces is eligible to the extent required to return these areas to a safe, basic state. For example, financial assistance can be provided for clean-up, restoration of insulation/vapour barrier, and replacement of essentials like furnaces and hot water heaters. The costs to restore basement finishes (drywall, flooring, etc.) and furnishings are not eligible.

The deadline to apply for the program is November 16, 2026. Guidelines and application forms are available on the DRAO website.

Those affected by flooding are encouraged to contact their insurance provider to determine whether their damage is covered by insurance, prior to applying for the DRAO program.

Any questions about the DRAO program can be sent to the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing at: DisasterAssistance@Ontario.ca.