The United States Government says it is providing US$2.5 million ($400 million) in humanitarian support for the communities impacted by Hurricane Beryl.

Word of the assistance came on Tuesday from US Ambassador to Jamaica Nick Perry who said it was being provided through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).

This assistance, the US Embassy said in a release, “is in direct response to a request from the Jamaican Government, demonstrating our enduring commitment to our close friends and neighbours”.

The embassy explained that Ambassador Perry released a declaration of humanitarian need in the wake of Hurricane Beryl’s effects on Jamaica, enabling the swift release of funds from USAID’s Bureau of Humanitarian Assistance to the Red Cross, the World Food Programme, and other organisations to support those in need and whose lives were upended by the storm.

“USAID intends to partner to repair homes, assist with water and sanitation needs, support logistical operations, and provide essential relief items, such as clean-up kits, hygiene kits, and tarps,” the embassy said, adding that USAID will also provide market-based assistance to help affected residents purchase basic household commodities and other needed items.

“The United States and Embassy Kingston stand firmly in solidarity with the people of Jamaica during this challenging time,” the release quotes Ambassador Perry. “We are committed to providing the necessary support to help these resilient communities recover and rebuild. Our friendship and partnership with Jamaica are steadfast, and in this time of need we are here to offer our assistance.”

Noting that the US is responding in Jamaica and across the Caribbean, the embassy said USAID has disaster experts on the ground in Jamaica, actively supporting damage assessments and coordination efforts.

The embassy also said that prior to Hurricane Beryl making landfall in the Caribbean, USAID had pre-positioned relief supplies in the region, deployed eight staff, and activated 25 disaster consultants in seven countries to support response efforts.