CHASE Fund commits $110m to Hurricane Beryl recovery
KINGSTON, Jamaica — A total of $110 million is to be invested by the Culture, Health, Arts, Sports and Education Fund (CHASE Fund) towards Hurricane Beryl recovery efforts.
The allocation will be directed towards rebuilding and revitalising institutions in sectors that serve large segments of the population especially vulnerable groups including the early childhood education sector, the heath sector and arts and culture sector.
CHASE Fund said the Early Childhood Education sector is to receive $50 million towards roof and other infrastructural damage repairs at infant schools and departments. Meanwhile, for the health sector, $50 million will be invested towards the repair of healthcare facilities and $10 million will be allocated for recovery efforts for heritage sites, libraries and cultural spaces in the arts and culture sector.
In a press release, CHASE Fund Chief Executive Officer (CEO), W Billy Heaven stated that “The recent hurricane had a profound impact on many communities, and it is crucial that we come together to support their recovery.”
CEO Heaven shared that the fund has been communicating with the Ministry of Education and Youth to determine which early childhood facilities islandwide are in need of the most help. He said the goal is to ensure that there is minimal disruption to learning process and that students can continue to receive quality education despite the challenges.
“The CHASE Fund is committed to ensuring that where possible, schools are ready for occupancy in September and communities have access to essential health services and support systems during their recovery,” Heaven said.
CHASE Fund chairman, Omar Frith shared that the organisation has a history of giving back and financially supporting projects in the areas of Culture, Health, Arts, and Early Childhood Education.
The donation of $110 million, he said, shows the fund’s continued commitment to advancing resilience and recovery in the wake of natural disasters. He added that a unified approach to Hurricane Beryl recovery efforts were crucial to the timely restoration of normalcy in affected communities, especially with the start of the new school year only months away.
CEO Heaven shared that the fund will be working alongside the various ministries to expedite this emergency response whilst following all the necessary protocols.
