A flood relief assistance program to aid Bucks County residents affected by the severe weather and flash flooding on July 12 is now open, announced state Rep. Tina Davis (D-Bucks) and state Sen. Robert “Tommy” Tomlinson (R-Bucks).
Also in attendance at the announcement, which took place at the Bucks County Redevelopment Authority in Bristol, were Rep. K.C. Tomlinson (R-Bucks), Bristol Township council president Craig Bowen, Bensalem Mayor Joe DiGirolamo, and Bucks County Redevelopment Authority representatives Sean Schaefer, board president, and Jeff Darwak, executive director.
The Neighborhood Flood Assistance Program is funded by a $1.75 million grant secured by the lawmakers from the Department of Community and Economic Development and will be administered by BCRDA. The program’s goal is to offer financial support to those who faced significant property loss or damage and were uninsured or underinsured. Assistance will not be given to landlords, businesses or nonprofit organizations.
“I’m very glad to have been instrumental in securing this critical state funding for our residents who have been struggling since the July 12 storm and flash floods destroyed their homes and so upended their lives,” Davis said. “Many have been forced to relocate in the storm’s aftermath. This state money will help our neighbors come home once again to rebuild their homes and their lives.”
The severe flash flood of July 12 most impacted the Lower Bucks County region, with 10 inches of rain falling within a short period of time, resulting in damage to homes and loss of property. Priority consideration will be given to residents of Bensalem, Bristol Borough and Bristol Township, and to those who faced catastrophic damage. The maximum grant award is $5,000 and the minimum is $500. Applicants are encouraged to apply early.
“The Neighborhood Flood Assistance Program is a prime example of government doing what it’s meant to do – protecting and providing support to the vulnerable among us by helping them get back on their feet when misfortune has befallen them,” Davis said. “I’m glad that state Rep. John Galloway, Sen. Tomlinson and I were able together to successfully advocate for and secure the needed resources for the people of Lower Bucks County during this difficult time.”
The program guidelines and applications are available at bcrda.com/neighborhood-flood-assistance-program-guidelines/. Paper applications will be provided as necessary. The program is open to homeowners or tenants whose primary residence is located in Bucks County and was damaged by the flooding event of July 12. Applicants need to provide proof of property damage and costs incurred not covered by insurance or other assistance programs. Specific information is available online.
The first round of grants is expected to be awarded by the end of September. The program will run until funds are exhausted.
