Timely Gov’t Response to Post-Hurricane Dislocation in Communities

In the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl, the Ministry of Labour and Social Security has taken swift and practical measures to provide essential humanitarian assistance to affected communities across Jamaica.

Addressing Wednesday’s (July 10) post-Cabinet press briefing at Jamaica House, Portfolio Minister, Hon. Pearnel Charles Jr., said following the hurricane’s passage on July 3, dedicated teams from the Ministry were promptly dispatched islandwide to assess damage and deliver essential relief supplies.

These provisions, to date, include more than 5,800 food packages, 749 tarpaulins, 483 mattresses, 612 hygiene kits, and 159 cases of water.

“This coordinated effort has been bolstered by a collaborative approach involving partners such as the Jamaica Red Cross, Food For the Poor, Adventist Relief Association, and various NGOs, alongside the invaluable support of volunteers and the Jamaica Defence Force,” the Minister said.

Mr. Charles pointed out that as Chair of the Humanitarian Assistance Committee under the National Disaster Risk Management Act, the Ministry also mobilised resources prior to the impending passage of the hurricane, the centre of which skirted Jamaica’s south coast.

He disclosed that pre-positioning vital supplies in strategic locations, such as St. Ann and Manchester, ensured that immediate relief efforts could be efficiently deployed.

Additionally, credit lines totalling $15 million were activated across nine parishes, facilitating rapid access to critical resources for emergency response.

Minister Charles stated that despite challenges posed by disruptions to electricity and telecommunications, assessments and distributions will continue diligently across affected areas.

Ministry teams have been actively engaged in assessing damage and distributing supplies to meet immediate needs in Kingston and St. Andrew, St. Thomas, Portland, St. Mary, St. Ann, Trelawny, St. James, Hanover, Westmoreland, St. Elizabeth, Manchester, Clarendon and St Catherine,
Reports indicate varying degrees of impact, with significant efforts focused on shelter provision, food distribution, and damage assessment.

International partners, including the United Nations (UN), World Food Programme (WFP), Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), United States Agency for International Development (USAID), and United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) have also provided crucial support, enhancing the Ministry’s capacity to respond effectively to the crisis.

Mr. Charles reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to leaving no one behind during this challenging time.

He urges all Jamaicans to join in the ongoing efforts to rebuild their communities, whether by volunteering, donating supplies or offering expertise, adding that every contribution makes a difference.

Persons requiring assistance can contact their local parish office or reach out to the Ministry at 876-922-8000-9.

They may also stay updated through the Ministry’s social media channels for the latest information and support.