By Thomas I. Likness
EBC Edmonton  Bureau

EDMONTON (Eagle News) — People in northern Alberta who were forced from their homes because of flooding will be given money to cover their expenses. The Alberta government announced this on Wednesday.

The emergency funding will give evacuees $1,250 per adult and $500 per child. They can apply for the payments online beginning May 4.

People being sheltered in hotels and other accommodations will have their costs covered by the province and local municipalities.

“Albertans are facing some of the toughest challenges in our province’s history,” said Premier Jason Kenney. “Our government will stand by Albertans during this trying time and we will make sure everyone has the support they need.”

“Financial assistance is available to evacuees to help with their short-term needs while they are away from their homes,” Kenney added. “As we navigate our way through these unprecedented times, Albertans will continue to be there for one another.”

Nearly 13 thousand people have left their homes. Another 450 from Fort Vermillion have also had to leave because of the ice jams that are backing up rivers in the region. One person in the region has died as a result of the flooding.

– Public Health Restrictions Eased –

The government has eased public health restrictions for volunteers and workers who are sandbagging and doing other flood-prevention work.

Workers can gather in groups of 15 people or more and distancing is not required. But these exemptions only apply to those working on flood mitigation.

Alberta Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Deena Hinshaw said evacuees traveling to other communities do not pose a threat.

“I want to assure the safety of Albertans is our top priority,” said Hinshaw. “As long as proper precautions are taken, there is no risk in welcoming evacuees to your communities in their time of need.”

“During emergency situations like this we must come together quickly and collectively respond as a community,” she said.

(Eagle News Service)