*UPDATE* New location added for cheque pickup.
Residents of the Rural Municipality of Piney who registered for emergency assistance will be able to collect initial payments for expenses beginning this weekend.
The municipality has been posting wildfire updates to its Facebook page and states that Emergency Social Services has announced that cheques will be distributed on Saturday, May 17, and Sunday, May 18, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. each day at two locations. Those who indicated they are staying in Winnipeg can pick up cheques at 114 Garry Street, while all other residents can collect theirs at the Lac du Bonnet Community Centre. Shortly after this announcement was made, a new location was added: Steinbach Place 323 Main Street (3rd floor boardroom).
For those unable to access these locations, alternate arrangements can be made by contacting Emergency Social Services via email at essevacuations@gov.mb.ca or by calling 204-945-5324. This initial payment covers a per-day rate for expenses up to and including May 20.
The municipality notes that residents who paid for hotel accommodations out of pocket are being advised to submit receipts for reimbursement to the email address provided.
Meanwhile, the wildfire in the Woodridge area remains classified as ‘Out of Control’ despite more than 15 millimetres of rain over the past 24 hours. Manitoba Wildfire Services reports that six dozers, two helicopters, and multiple fire crews are working alongside the RM of Piney fire service and other municipal fire departments to contain the blaze.
The evacuation order will remain in place until the fire’s status is downgraded to ‘Being Held.’
The R.M. of Piney adds that evacuees in need of lodging are reminded that the Province has arranged hotel accommodations in Steinbach, Winnipeg, Morris, Oak Bank, and Altona, with costs covered by the Province. A full list of participating hotels and instructions for completing the required online form are available on the RM of Piney’s official website and social media pages.
The municipality notes that food expenses are also being covered, with reimbursements of up to $34 per day for individuals over the age of 12 and $27 per day for those under 12, dating back to the start of the evacuation.