Ottawa gets $1M for extreme weather prep over three years

Ottawa's communities will receive $1 million over three years to prepare for extreme weather through a new city-backed grant program. The Environment and Climate Change Committee and Emergency Preparedness and Protective Services Committee approved the Extreme Weather Preparedness Grant Program on June 17, responding to rising threats from heat waves, flooding, and ice storms. The funding will support neighbourhood-level projects like creating community emergency plans, training volunteers, and buying essential equipment. "We know that Canada, especially Ottawa, is facing some really tough times with government cutbacks and layoffs," said Jo Hall, executive director of the Canadian Tulip Festival, speaking to the city's broader fiscal pressures. "We hope that the city understands that our economic impact is huge. And on top of that, our psychological impact is massive." Community associations, nonprofits, and local groups will be eligible to apply for funding—$55,000 per year goes directly to neighbourhood organizations. The money can support practical equipment like mobile generators, power stations, temporary shelters, cooling and warming solutions, radios, and emergency kits. Less than one-third of residents surveyed by the city reported having a community emergency plan, leaving a significant gap the program aims to close. By equipping neighbourhoods with tools and supplies, the city hopes to help residents respond faster during emergencies and ease pressure on first responders.