The Government has allocated an additional $60 million to help municipal corporations improve emergency shelter accommodations across Jamaica as the country prepares for the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season.
The announcement was made by Minister of Local Government and Community Development Desmond McKenzie during his contribution to the 2026/27 Sectoral Debate in the House of Representatives on Wednesday.
McKenzie said the funds will be used to purchase blankets, cots and other bedding materials aimed at improving conditions for residents who may need to seek refuge in emergency shelters.
The minister also revealed plans for the construction of three large-scale shelters in Clarendon, St Elizabeth and Westmoreland at an estimated cost of $1 billion.
Each facility will measure approximately 10,000 square feet and will be capable of accommodating up to 700 people. The shelters are expected to be hurricane- and earthquake-resistant, energy efficient and equipped with amenities that can be used throughout the year.
Meanwhile, McKenzie provided an update on housing arrangements for shelter residents in Shrewsbury, Westmoreland, noting that 10 of the 16 concrete foundations required for housing units have already been completed.
He said the housing units, currently in the custody of the Jamaica Defence Force, will soon be relocated to the site for occupancy by registered residents.
Additionally, 200 young Jamaicans will be deployed through the Social Development Commission and municipal corporations beginning July 1 to support shelter operations, public education efforts and disaster preparedness activities throughout the hurricane season.
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