JPs Urged to Help Hurricane-Affected Entrepreneurs Access Gov’t Recovery Grant Programme

Justices of the Peace (JPs) are being urged to assist in verifying the identities and business histories of informal business operators affected by Hurricane Melissa, to help them access the Government’s $500-million recovery grant programme.

Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Senator the Hon. Aubyn Hill, who made the appeal, said eligible businesses must have employed no more than 20 people before the hurricane and recorded annual sales not exceeding $75 million.

He noted that successful applicants may receive grants of up to $350,000, along with up to $100,000 to replace damaged tools, equipment and stock.

Senator Hill was speaking during a virtual sensitisation session hosted by the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs on October 22 to update JPs on the Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSME) Restoration Grant Initiative.

The session formed part of the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the capacity of JPs as justice-sector personnel and deepen their understanding of Government policies and programmes that can enhance service delivery.

Senator Hill explained that the initiative features two components: the FASST Biz Grant for eligible micro and small businesses repairing hurricane-damaged premises or replacing equipment and tools, and the Tools of Trade (TOT) Grant for eligible self-employed tradespersons replacing tools lost or damaged as a result of Hurricane Melissa.

He said JPs will play a particularly important role in the TOT category, which targets self-employed operators such as hairdressers, barbers, carpenters, masons, gardeners, cookshop operators, craft vendors, and market vendors.

Applicants are required to obtain attestations from two eligible verifiers confirming their identities and establishing that they were operating businesses prior to Hurricane Melissa.

Other recognised verifiers include Members of Parliament, presidents of approved industry associations, and ministers of religion affiliated with recognised umbrella church organisations.

“Please show compassion and help those who turn to you for assistance,” Senator Hill said, urging JPs to support vulnerable entrepreneurs as they work to rebuild their livelihoods.

The Minister said applications opened on October 6 and will close on November 16. He noted that applicants can apply online through designated Government platforms, including payout.gov.jm, while Ministry teams continue to conduct outreach sessions in affected parishes to assist entrepreneurs with the application process.

Senator Hill encouraged prospective applicants to have their Taxpayer Registration Numbers (TRNs) ready and to submit clear photographs documenting the damage sustained.

He also cautioned that the grants are being provided at no cost and warned that anyone requesting payment to facilitate registration or approval is attempting to defraud applicants.

The Minister said the initiative forms part of broader efforts to support business recovery in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, alongside other measures such as fee reductions and loan extensions provided through the Export-Import Bank of Jamaica.

He acknowledged that the $500-million allocation would not fully compensate for all losses incurred, but said it would provide targeted support to eligible operators seeking to restore their businesses and livelihoods.

Senator Hill commended the JPs for their volunteer service and encouraged them to assist entrepreneurs in navigating the verification process, accessing available support, and rebuilding their livelihoods.