$60 million allocated for Jamaica shelter improvements

Jamaica is bolstering its emergency shelter infrastructure with an additional $60 million allocated for improvements, announced Minister of Local Government and Community Development, Desmond McKenzie. The funds will equip municipal corporations to better prepare for the hurricane season, providing essential items such as blankets and cots.

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This is the first allocation that will be made as we get ready for the hurricane season that is here with us.

McKenzie revealed the allocation during the 2026/27 Sectoral Debate in the House of Representatives. He highlighted a strategic shift in shelter management, moving from multiple small venues to constructing larger, purpose-built facilities in Clarendon, St. Elizabeth, and Westmoreland. These new shelters, each designed to accommodate 700 people, will be approximately 10,000 square feet, energy-efficient, and built to withstand hurricanes and earthquakes.

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Instead of using multiple venues, we are looking… to build shelters in at least three parishes that can accommodate a large number of Jamaicans.

Further updates were provided on housing accommodations for displaced individuals in Shrewsbury, Westmoreland, where construction of concrete bases for 16 housing units is underway. The housing units themselves are secured and will be made available soon for registered individuals. Additionally, 200 young Jamaicans will join the Social Development Commission and municipal corporations starting July 1 to support shelter arrangements and public outreach, enhancing disaster response capabilities throughout the hurricane season.

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They will work for the entire hurricane season. They will be deployed to work with disaster coordinators across the municipality in strengthening the disaster response capabilities.