KINGSTON, Jamaica—The Ministry of Labour and Social Security (MLSS) says it has paid out over $115 million to Jamaicans whose homes were damaged or destroyed by Hurricane Melissa under the Restoration of Owner Occupant Family Shelters (ROOFS) programme.

According to the ministry in a media release on Monday, some 1,305 households have received financial assistance across multiple payment modalities, with all systems now fully activated to accelerate disbursements nationwide.

The assistance is provided across three damage categories of minor damage ($75,000 for structurally sound homes with damaged roofs, windows, doors, or fixtures), major damage ($200,000 for homes with compromised structural elements requiring significant repair) and severe damage (up to $500,000 for homes requiring demolition and complete reconstruction).

The ministry said as of Friday, January 30, 1,235 households received $75,000 each via direct deposit, totaling $92.625 million. Additionally, 50 beneficiaries in the severe damage category received up to $500,000 each through digital vouchers, totaling $25 million. Twenty Jamaicans also received prepaid cards totaling $1.5 million.

Minister of Labour and Social Security Pearnel Charles Jr, speaking at the ROOFS handing-over ceremony at the Ministry of Labour and Social Security’s parish office in Santa Cruz on Friday, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the more than 400 volunteers and approximately 300 staff members whose dedication resulted in the completion of 87,876 home assessments –which enables payments.

“Their compassion and tireless service have proved invaluable to the national recovery effort and to the families they have helped,” he said.

Minister Charles also emphasised the government’s commitment to responsible stewardship and complete recovery.

“Receiving this grant marks the beginning, not the end of recovery. My ministry has established support systems, including help lines and technical guidance, to assist beneficiaries through rebuilding,” Charles said.

“These funds must be used responsibly. They are for restoring homes, nothing else. Fraud will not be tolerated, because every misused dollar deprives another family of help,” Charles Jr said.

The minister also offered reassurance and encouragement to beneficiaries and those awaiting assistance.

“To beneficiaries: this grant represents partnership with your Government. It represents safety, dignity, and hope. To those still awaiting assistance, assessments and verifications continue across all fourteen parishes. No eligible family will be left behind. We made a promise that Jamaica would rebuild with integrity. Today, that promise is being honoured,” Minister Charles declared

At the national launch of the Shelter Recovery Programme on January 15, 2026, Prime Minister Andrew Holness, pledged that every Jamaican who lost a home due to Hurricane Melissa would receive support to rebuild, emphasising that no one would be left behind.