NHT Processes $2.2 Billion in Hurricane Relief Grants

Approximately 5,100 applications have been processed under the National Housing Trust (NHT) Hurricane Relief Grant Initiative, representing $2.2 billion in payouts to homeowners and NHT contributors impacted by Hurricane Melissa.

Speaking at a Jamaica Information Service (JIS) Think Tank on June 24, Assistant General Manager for Corporate Communications and Public Affairs at the NHT, Dwayne Berbick, said the Trust has received approximately 8,300 applications for support under the facility.

The majority of the applications were submitted by residents of Westmoreland, St. James and St. Elizabeth, the three parishes most severely affected by the hurricane.

Through this hurricane relief initiative, the NHT is providing financial assistance to individuals who suffered property damage during the passage of Hurricane Melissa.

“The funding is used for a combination of things, from buying building material to pay for workmen. Most people use it to repair roofs that were damaged during the passage of the hurricane and some NHT mortgagors use it to assist with their peril insurance claims, putting the funds towards what we call an excess that is required as part of the claims process,” Mr. Berbick explained.

He noted that the NHT continues to process grant applications, with allocations being assessed based on need and level of impact.

The facility prioritises those unable to take on additional borrowing, including pensioners and other vulnerable groups.

The hurricane relief grant forms part of a broader package of housing initiatives announced by Prime Minister, Dr. the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, in March to strengthen housing security across Jamaica.