Downed power poles in Pictou County. (CREDIT: Communications Nova Scotia).

Nova Scotian’s eligible for the Hurricane Fiona, Financial Assistance Program, have just over two weeks left to apply.

“Fiona was one of the most devastating and expensive storms in our province’s history, and we know many people are still struggling. We wanted to give people a little more time to get their applications submitted for the various programs,” said John Lohr, Minister of the Nova Scotia Emergency Management Office. “I encourage anyone who could be eligible for any of these programs to get their applications in. Staff are working to process applications and are available to assist with questions.”

Programs include:

— The Fiona Tree Removal Reimbursement Program provides up to $250 to residential property owners and tenants to help with the cost of tree removal services.

— The Fiona Agricultural Disaster Assistance Program helps cover the cost of damage or additional operational costs for equipment, infrastructure, crops, livestock and feed. It also covers cleanup, fuel and alternative power expenses.

— The Fiona Aquaculture Disaster Assistance Program helps cover the cost of damaged or lost equipment, infrastructure and inventory in the water and on land. It also covers cleanup, fuel and alternative power expenses.

— The Disaster Financial Assistance Program is designed to help Nova Scotians, municipalities, small businesses, and not-for-profit groups get back on their feet after a major storm or natural disaster. It helps those whose losses are not insurable and covers up to $200,000.

As well as assistance for municipalities, small businesses and not-for-profits, whose losses are not insurable and cover up to $200,000.

After the storm on September 24, the Government provide more than $40 million in relief for individuals and organizations to help with the cost of recovery. The Fiona Food Cost Reimbursement Program that provided people $100 to help cover the cost of food lost from the hurricane, closed December 16. While registration for the Canadian Red Cross financial assistance programs related to Fiona closed December 2.

There is no deadline for municipalities, but support for individuals, has an application deadline of February 24.