Minister of Labour and Social Security, Pearnel Charles Jr, is urging residents of St Elizabeth to invest the funds they receive from the Government's Rebuild Jamaica Initiative wisely, particularly in preparing for upcoming storms and rebuilding their homes.
Speaking at a handing-over ceremony where over 100 residents received relief grant cheques at All Saints Anglican Church in Newell, St Elizabeth on Wednesday, Charles Jr underscored the importance of using the funds to safeguard against future storms.
"The funds that you are receiving today are to be used wisely. Today (Wednesday) some of you will receive cheques at the value of $50,000, some $150,000, and others, cumulatively, $400,000, based on the result of the assessment that was done," the minister informed.
"These funds are intended to help you rebuild, and as you do so, I want to urge you to invest in the resilient hurricane straps, invest in other protective measures to safeguard your homes against the future storms," he urged.
The Rebuild Jamaica Initiative was launched last August in response to the devastation caused by Hurricane Beryl, a category four system that ravaged several parts of the island on July 3, 2024.
"Since the launch of the Rebuild Jamaica Initiative, we have dispersed over $1.5 billion worth of direct assistance to affected families across the island," Charles Jr said.
"And, in St Elizabeth alone, thousands of households have received much needed support, with many already on their way to rebuilding not just their homes, but their lives," he stated.
The Government's efforts to support affected families extend beyond the relief grant cheques.
According to Charles Jr, the Government, in collaboration with other stakeholders, has also provided much resources, including food and other forms of support, to families in St Elizabeth and across the country generally.
"This effort has not been a one-time response, but rather, a continuous mission," Charles Jr declared.
The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June to November yearly.
