The Local Government Ministry says shelterees still housed at schools will be placed in viable accommodations by May 8.
As at today, April 9, only 8 schools are operating as shelters, housing 81 shelterees.
The Education Ministry states that the $10 billion Roofs Housing Assistance Programme, payment of rent for several families, repairs of homes and other interventions have significantly reduced the number of families living in shelters.
It adds that priority for relocation will be given to shelterees at Petersfield High School, which is the largest remaining shelter following the passage of Hurricane Melissa.
Approximately half of all school-based shelterees are at Petersfield.
The ministry says a range of housing solutions is being deployed to support the transition of shelterees into more suitable living arrangements.
These include the provision of government-procured modular housing units, the payment of rent in appropriate cases, and other tailored accommodation solutions based on the needs of individual families.
Local Government Minister Desmond McKenzie says the ministry is taking a practical and compassionate approach to this matter, using every appropriate option available.
He adds that in short order, the government will begin rolling out modular housing units.
Work is ongoing to prepare the remaining foundations for swift installation of the units and the minister says he expects that in short order the homes will be ready for all shelterees at the Petersfield shelter.
The ministry reaffirms that no effort will be spared in completing the shelter transition process and advancing the wider recovery agenda for families impacted by Hurricane Melissa.
