Thirteen families, who suffered the loss of or severe damage to their homes as a result of the 2013 Christmas Eve trough, received financial assistance from the Government of Saint Lucia for the reconstruction of their homes.

Last Thursday, a total of $194, 000 was handed over to individuals who were selected through the combined efforts of the National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) and the Saint Lucia Red Cross. The handover took place at a ceremony held in the Cabinet Room of the Office of the Prime Minister.

In his remarks, Prime Minister, Hon. Dr. Kenny D. Anthony, extended his gratitude to the governments and agencies who contributed to the trough rehabilitation efforts. He added that the Government’s response should be seen as a specific response to the recent disaster, and is not indicative of a new trend.

“In some ways the reaction of the government to the Christmas Eve trough has been unusual. What we have done following that trough may not necessarily happen again. You recall many homes were flooded and persons lost mattresses, kitchen utensils and for the very first time, we reacted by seeking the support of a major contributor, Digicel, to provide us with refrigerators, stoves and even washing machines to assist persons who lost those important household items.  We remain deeply grateful to Digicel. It is not usual for Governments to intervene in this way and to make available kitchen equipment of that kind. But I hasten to add that there must not be a continued expectation that somehow, anytime a disaster strikes, the Government will respond in that way.”

While the amount given will not cover the full cost of damage to the houses, the Prime Minister said it is an expression of the Government’s concern for the welfare of its people, particularly the poor and vulnerable.

During the ceremony, the recipients expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister and the Government of Saint Lucia, the donors as well as those who responded in the immediate aftermath of the disaster.

The housing assistance was made possible through the financial contributions of friendly governments and agencies.