Over US$1.4m In Additional Post-Hurricane Grant Support Being Provided for Vulnerable Jamaicans

Vulnerable Jamaicans who were affected during the passage of Hurricane Beryl are to receive cash grants, through a US$1.4-million United Nations World Food Programme initiative.

Minister of Labour and Social Security, Hon. Pearnel Charles Jr., made the disclosure during Tuesday’s (September 10) post-Cabinet press briefing at Jamaica House.

“Through a collaboration with the World Food Programme, there will be an additional cash grant provided for several of the beneficiaries who are in the more vulnerable categories. [A total of] US$1.4 million has been provided by the UN World Food Programme to deliver cash grants to some of the worst-affected families with children, persons with disabilities and elderly members,” he said.

The Minister informed that payments of that tranche will commence this month.

Mr. Charles also advised that the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) is providing nearly $42.75 million in targeted support.

“We will also see $36.5 million provided to families on the Programme of Advancement Through Health and Education (PATH) with children, ages zero to six years, and pregnant or lactating mothers, as well as $6.25 million provided to persons with disabilities who have been affected in a negative way by Hurricane Beryl. These payments will commence by the end of September,” he stated.

“Another one of our partnerships is with the Global Empowerment Mission (GEM), and in that partnership, we are seeking to assist and support up to 1,500 households, starting with the replacement of 250 roofs in the worst-hit communities. We are finalising the partnership with [GEM] and that should see [them] providing material at no cost to the beneficiary,” he added.

Mr. Charles thanked all partner stakeholders for their support, while acknowledging the strategic partnerships that have been forged for advancement to the benefit of Jamaicans, particularly those impacted by the hurricane.