MONTEGO BAY, St James –  Over $1.5 billion in direct assistance has been disbursed to families across the island who were affected by Hurricane Beryl last year.

Minister of Labour and Social Security, Pearnel Charles Jr, gave the update at the presentation of cheques under Rebuild Jamaica to over 100 hurricane victims in St Elizabeth at Newell in the parish on Wednesday.

Persons received cheques valued at $50,000, $150,000 and $400,000, based on the results of the needs assessment conducted.

Minister Charles Jr noted that thousands of householders in St Elizabeth have received much-needed support under Rebuild Jamaica, with many already well on their way to rebuilding their homes and their lives.

He said that the effort has not been a one-time response but a continuous mission, noting that over the past year “we have worked to expand our support, ensuring that every verified household, whether they experienced minor, severe, or total damage, has received the resources needed to start anew”.

“Over 90 per cent of the households identified in our initial assessments have received financial assistance. We have provided technical support to help homeowners rebuild stronger, more resilient structures. Small businesses affected by the hurricane have received grants to aid in their recovery, ensuring that the economic heartbeat of St Elizabeth continues to thrive,” Charles Jr added.

He said the work does not stop at recovery, noting that “we cannot simply rebuild; we must rebuild smarter.”

As such, he said that Rebuild Jamaica has emphasised the importance of hurricane-resistant infrastructure, offering guidance and support to ensure homes are reinforced to withstand future storms.

“These funds are intended to help you rebuild and as you do, I urge you to invest in hurricane straps and other protective measures to safeguard your homes against future storms,” the minister advised.

He noted the Government’s commitment “to leaving no one behind.”

“Whether in times of disaster or in the everyday challenges of life, we are committed to ensuring that every Jamaican, especially the most vulnerable, has access to the support they need,” he said.

“The Rebuild Jamaica initiative reflects this commitment. Every effort made by our social workers, parish managers, and government agencies is proof that we are here for you,” he added.

Charles Jr commended the Parish Manager for St Elizabeth, Michelle Senior, “along with the hardworking social workers who have been on the ground, working tirelessly to ensure assessments were conducted, beneficiaries were identified, and support was delivered.”

He noted that social workers “are at the forefront of serving our most vulnerable citizens, providing care, guidance and hope.”

–          JIS