A team of workers clad in bright orange vests swiftly unloaded from a garbage truck and swiftly disposed of over 20 stuffed garbage bags, numerous couches, and chairs from the front of a residence in north Niagara Falls on Monday afternoon. The crew efficiently cleared debris from flooded basements along both sides of the street, collecting around 10 loads of waste before moving on to neighboring streets. The sound of the truck’s compactor crunching and grinding the discarded items echoed through the neighborhood.
In response to the widespread need to discard flood-damaged household belongings following recent flooding, half of Niagara’s 12 municipalities have extended curbside pickup services for damaged items, albeit for a limited period.
In St. Catharines, curbside garbage restrictions have been lifted for flood-related waste citywide until August 14, permitting residents to place flood-damaged items on the curb on their regular garbage day. There is no limit on the number of large items that can be set out for collection. Additionally, tipping fees have been waived at designated landfill sites until August 15.
Residents in Lincoln can dispose of flood-related waste without restrictions until August 21, with no limit on the number of large items for curbside collection. Tipping fees have also been waived at a specific landfill site. The town has enlisted the help of volunteer organizations to aid in cleanup efforts for flooded homes.
Niagara-on-the-Lake has expanded its temporary curbside collection services for flood-related items, allowing residents to set out additional bags beyond their regular limit. The town also provides options for disposing of construction materials and scheduling special curbside collections for large items.
Niagara Falls residents eligible for additional curbside collection of flood-damaged items can register for assistance online or by contacting the city. The deadline for applications has been extended to August 14.
In Thorold and Grimsby, curbside garbage limits for flood-related waste have been lifted town-wide until August 14, with no restrictions on the number of large items for collection.
Team Rubicon Canada is actively assisting vulnerable individuals in St. Catharines with cleaning out flood-affected homes. The organization is collaborating with the city to identify those in urgent need and has set up a registry for vulnerable persons.
As the cleanup efforts continue, volunteers are expected to be actively involved in assisting affected residents in the coming days.