Canandaigua’s Happiness House residents displaced after July flood: Repairs could take months

Canandaigua’s Happiness House, a nonprofit that provides housing for individuals with disabilities and those in low-income situations, suffered significant damage following major flooding in July. The swift floodwaters led to about two feet of water and mud inundating two buildings on the property, ruining 17 units in total.

CEO Darrell Whitbeck told 13WHAM-TV that damages are estimated between $1.3 and $1.6 million, explaining, “We lost two feet of drywall, all of the appliances, flooring, and counters.”

Due to the extensive damages and potential for long repair periods, leases for first-floor tenants were terminated, prompting them to seek more stable housing.

While Happiness House is accommodating some residents at a nearby hotel, others have sought refuge with friends, family, or other aid organizations. Providence Housing, the property management company working with Happiness House, has successfully relocated some residents to other apartments.

The nonprofit has appealed to FEMA for funding assistance and is also exploring small business loan options.