ROOFS Programme Supporting Families Affected by Huricane Melissa

The Ministry of Labour and Social Security’s Restoration of Owner or Occupant Family Shelters (ROOFS) initiative continues to support families affected by Hurricane Melissa, through structured and accountable assistance.

State Minister in the Ministry, Hon. Donovan Williams said the programme is designed to empower beneficiaries, while noting that the loss of a home extends beyond physical damage.

“This is not merely a handover ceremony. It is a moment of recognition of the hardship endured by families whose homes were damaged by Hurricane Melissa and recognition of their determination to rebuild stronger than before,” Mr. Williams said.

“When a family loses part or all of their home, it is not just wood and zinc that are affected. It is safety, stability, peace of mind,” he added.

The State Minister was addressing the Hanover leg of the ROOFS handover ceremony, held at the Hanover Parish Church Hall in Lucea recently.

Mr. Williams explained that the grants represent collaboration between the Government and recipients.

“These grants are not simply financial assistance. They represent partnership between the Government and the people, a shared commitment to resilience, recovery, and renewal,” he noted.

The Minister of State further indicated that while assistance must be delivered promptly, proper procedures must be maintained.

“So, while we try to respond quickly, we have to make sure that the process is fair and accountable,” Mr. Williams added.

He also acknowledged the efforts of Ministry personnel and volunteers who assisted with assessments and verification efforts to ensure that support reached eligible families.

“To our beneficiaries, we acknowledge your resilience. The rebuilding process is not easy, and it requires courage and persistence,” he emphasized, adding that recovery is a collective effort.

“Recovery is not accomplished in a single day. We work together… to move forward step by step. We rebuild not just structures, but confidence, not just roofs, but renewed hope,” Mr. Williams stated.