North Country Sen. Patty Ritchie, R-Heuvelton, is encouraging all homeowners whose primary residence suffered damage as a result of this year’s flooding along the St. Lawrence River to apply for relief funding as soon as possible

The application process is underway and applications are now available at www.hcr.ny.gov. The agency tasked with overseeing the program is New York State Homes and Community Renewal.

As part of the REDI program, New York State set aside $20 million to help homeowners complete repair projects and build to help prevent damage from the possibility of future flooding. Initially though, the state earmarked the $20 million only for those who saw their primary home damaged.

However, thanks in part to Sen. Ritchie’s concern, which included writing a letter to the governor’s office in support of adding secondary homes to the eligibility list, seasonal homeowners will be able to apply soon. Details regarding a future application window for seasonal homes will be released soon.

“I have seen firsthand the hardships and stress faced by homeowners along the shorelines of Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River due to yet another record high water event. The damage caused has been nothing short of devastating for people all along the shores. I want to thank Governor Cuomo and the REDI Commission for not only providing this funding, but also for deciding to include our seasonal residents in this process,” Said Ritchie, who represents represents the 48th Senate District. Its northern reaches include Ogdensburg, Canton and Gouverneur. It goes as far south as Oswego County.

Ritchie urges primary shoreline homeowners to apply for funding as soon as possible, as the primary home application process is expected to close Oct. 31.