KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Ministry of Local Government and Community Development has announced that all remaining Hurricane Melissa shelterees currently housed in school shelters will be relocated to suitable accommodations by May 8, 2026, as part of an ongoing national recovery effort.

According to the ministry, only eight schools remain in use as emergency shelters, collectively housing 81 individuals. The ministry said this significant reduction reflects the impact of multiple interventions, including the $10-billion ROOFS housing assistance programme, rental support for displaced families and widespread home repair initiatives.

It said the final phase of relocation is guided by a commitment to restore normalcy not only for displaced families but also for school communities affected by prolonged shelter use. Special priority is being given to residents of Petersfield High School, which remains the largest active shelter and currently houses approximately half of all school-based shelterees.

The ministry noted that a range of housing solutions is being deployed to support the transition including government-procured modular housing units, rental assistance where appropriate and customised accommodation arrangements based on the needs of individual families.

Portfolio Minister Desmond McKenzie reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to meeting the relocation deadline.

“I can personally give my commitment that all families within a school-based shelter will be provided with suitable, dignified accommodations by Friday, May 8,” he said.

The minister added that the Government is taking a “practical and compassionate approach”, utilising all available options to ensure a smooth transition.

“In short order, we will begin rolling out modular housing units. The units are here and work is ongoing to prepare the remaining foundations for swift installation. I therefore expect that in short order we will have homes ready for all shelterees at the Petersfield shelter. As the largest active shelter, we must prioritise Petersfield. By May 8, all shelterees in school shelters will have a dignified place to call home,” McKenzie said.

The relocation effort is being coordinated through a multi-agency response involving key ministries, departments and agencies, with a strong focus on the welfare of displaced residents and the broader recovery of communities affected by Hurricane Melissa.

The ministry reiterated that no effort will be spared in completing the shelter transition process and advancing the wider recovery agenda for families impacted by the hurricane.

The update comes after concerns raised by Jamaica Teachers’ Association (JTA) President Dr Mark Malabver during the opening of the three-day JTA Education Conference 2026. He warned that students were being exposed to sexual activity involving Hurricane Melissa victims who are still sheltering in some schools, months after the October 2025 storm.

READ: ‘Deeply troubling’

The Ministry of Education has said it is reviewing the matter, though no incidents have been officially confirmed.

READ: Education Ministry probing reports that students exposed to sex by people in school shelters