KINGSTON, Jamaica—National Housing Trust (NHT) contributors and mortgagors who remain unsure of how to begin their recovery journey after Hurricane Melissa are being encouraged to connect with the Trust for support.

Manager for customer relations management at the NHT, Shara Luke Cooper, says the organisation recognises the emotional and financial strain many families continue to face nearly a month after the passage of the powerful category five hurricane.

“We understand the circumstances, and we want these persons to take some time to breathe then reach out to us. We can hold their hand through this recovery process,” Luke Cooper said, while speaking at a Jamaica Information Service (JIS) Think Tank on November 25.

She noted that NHT teams are actively visiting communities, making it easier for individuals to engage staff, ask questions, and receive guidance.

The NHT has implemented a comprehensive set of disaster-response measures aimed at assisting contributors and mortgagors whose homes or livelihoods have been affected by the recent hurricane.

These include a Hurricane Relief Loan that offers up to $3.5 million to homeowners, a Special Disaster Grant of up to $500,000 and a Moratorium on Mortgage Payments for six months. Individuals who suffered damage can also file peril insurance claims.

Luke Cooper also urged individuals to visit the NHT’s website at www.nht.gov.jm/recover to access application resources and guidance on the disaster relief initiatives.

Additionally, Jamaicans can help neighbours and relatives to submit applications, if affected individuals are unable to do so themselves.

Meanwhile, assistant general manager for corporate communications and public affairs, Dwayne Berbick, said the trust’s disaster relief initiatives are inclusive and are designed to benefit a wide range of individuals, including current contributors, mortgagors, former mortgagors and pensioners.

“And if for any reason they’re in a niche area and feel that none of these initiatives are somehow reaching them, [we want them] to reach out to us and let us know the kind of support that we can provide,” Berbick told JIS News.

He pointed out that the NHT remains flexible in adjusting its processes and requirements where possible, noting that the organisation is committed to helping Jamaicans recover “and recover well” as the country continues to rebuild in the aftermath of the hurricane.

—JIS