Wheatley Business Recovery Program

More than three dozen Wheatley businesses and non-profit organizations affected by the August 26 explosion and subsequent evacuation of part of the downtown core can now apply for provincial funding to mitigate their financial losses.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford announced $2 million in business relief funding following a personal visit to Wheatley in September.

Stuart McFadden, Chatham-Kent Director of Economic Development, said the funding application provides aid in two phases. The application will be posted on the Municipal website, Tuesday, November 2nd.

“The first phase is for immediate emergency financial relief and the second is for re-establishment of businesses and relocation if needed,” he said. “We are urging all businesses affected by the explosion to apply.”

Applicants are being asked to return the completed form by email. For those needing assistance, Municipal Economic Development Services staff will be available on-site at the Wheatley Resource Centre/Food Bank location at 108 Talbot Road East.

• Thursday, November 4, 9:00 am – 1:30 pm
• Friday, November 5, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
• Monday, November 8, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
• Friday, November 12, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
• Monday, November 15, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm (if required)

Applications will be accepted until November 15, 2021, and will be reviewed immediately. Economic Development Services will notify successful applicants of the amount of funding disbursement.

Once notified of success, a disbursement agreement will be forwarded for signature and when returned, the Municipality will promptly process payment.