Businesses, not-for-profit organizations, and commercial properties impacted by the gas explosion in Wheatley are getting some much-needed financial help.
The Municipality of Chatham-Kent has secured $3.9 million from the provincial Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade, for Wheatley businesses that have been unable to operate since the explosion on August 21, 2021.
A total of 44 business properties were initially evacuated following the gas explosion in August.
The funds will be distributed in three phases and will assist affected businesses with revenue losses up to August 2022. The first disbursement will take place immediately to approved applicants.
“Our municipality has been focusing on doing everything we can to help the affected businesses of Wheatley,” said Stuart McFadden, Chatham-Kent’s director of Economic Development Services. “We’re thankful that the province of Ontario has been at the table working with us from day one and hopefully this additional $3.9 million will help the businesses during the time it takes to open their doors again.”
The municipality has now secured a total of $5.9 million in provincial aid for Wheatley’s businesses, with $1.97 million distributed so far.
Chatham-Kent Economic Development will continue to coordinate the disbursement of funds to displaced businesses and provide business owners with up-to-date information, guidance, and support.