Persons in Shelter to Receive Food and other Supplies

The Government has stipulated that persons in storm shelters across the island are to be provided with food and other supplies upon entering the facilities.

Minister of Local Government and Community Development, Hon. Desmond McKenzie, said previously, persons were required to take their own food and medications, with supplies provided to those who remain in the shelters after 72 hours.

He noted, however, that Cabinet has issued instructions for supplies to be provided immediately.

Minister McKenzie was addressing a press conference at the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) today (Oct. 3).

As of late Sunday (Oct. 2) into Monday morning, shelters across the island were equipped through collaboration with the Red Cross, Salvation Army and the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA). The agencies have also assisted with the preparation of hot meals in some instances.

The Minister informed that the security forces are monitoring the facilities, and have also increased patrols in areas such as Old Harbour Bay, St. Catherine where many residents have evacuated their homes.

Mr. McKenzie commended persons residing in flood-prone area, who have heeded the call to evacuate.

He noted that Port Royal remains a challenge as only four persons took the offer to relocate to a shelter when the Jamaica Urban Transit Company (JUTC) buses were sent to the area last evening. He said buses will be sent again today.

Minister McKenzie revealed that there are 89 active shelters accommodating 1, 845 persons.

Portland and St. Thomas account for the most persons in shelters, with 467 and 706, respectively. Kingston and St. Andrew’s 30 shelters have 229 occupants, while St. Catherine has 202, with an additional 44 persons in shelters in Portmore.

St. Mary has 149 persons in shelters; St. Ann, 53; Trelawny, 65; Westmoreland, 36; St. James, 33; Hanover, 12; and St. Elizabeth, six.

Mr. McKenzie said over 7, 200 mattresses have been provided to shelters.

He further noted that some organisations have responded to the call to aid the relief effort by donating items valued at about $1 million. These include the NCB Foundation and Kirk Distributers.

The Minister reiterated the call for corporate Jamaica and private citizens to give assistance where possible.