Kingston, July 20, 2024— In a decisive move to support the government’s national recovery efforts following the passage of Hurricane Beryl, the CHASE Fund has announced an investment of JA$110 million toward restoring critical sectors in severely affected parishes.
This substantial allocation will be directed towards rebuilding and revitalizing institutions in sectors that serve large segments of the population, especially vulnerable groups; these include, the Early Childhood Education sector – to receive $50 million towards roof and other infrastructural damage repairs at infant schools and departments; the Health sector – to receive $50 million towards repair of healthcare facilities and the Arts & Culture sector – to receive $10 million toward recovery efforts for heritage sites, libraries and cultural spaces.
CHASE Fund Chairman, Omar Frith, stated that this substantial allocation underscores the Fund’s commitment to advancing resilience and recovery in the wake of natural disasters. He also said that a unified approach at hurricane Beryl recovery efforts were crucial to the timely restoration of normalcy in affected communities, especially with the impending start of the new school year.
Mr. Frith further noted that the CHASE Fund already has a track record of providing financing for projects in the areas of Culture, Health, Arts, and Early Childhood Education, which include: the construction and upgrading of infant schools and resource centres; financing scholarships and grants; preserving historic sites, monuments, libraries and archives; promoting film and media development; supporting the craft industry; enhancing health facilities; and promoting healthy lifestyles among other initiatives.
“By prioritizing efforts in these areas under our remit, we simultaneously address immediate needs while bolstering resilience against future natural disasters, fostering long-term stability and growth in affected regions,” the Chairman concluded.
Meanwhile, CHASE Fund CEO, W. Billy Heaven shared that they have been liaising with the Ministry of Education and Youth to determine priority areas of greatest need for early childhood facilities island wide. He stated that the goal is to ensure that the disruption to learning is minimized and that students can continue to receive quality education despite the challenges. “The CHASE Fund is committed to ensuring that where possible, schools are ready for occupancy in September and communities have access to essential health services and support systems during their recovery,” said the CEO. “The recent hurricane had a profound impact on many communities, and it is crucial that we come together to support their recovery,” Mr. Heaven added. He further disclosed that the Fund will be working hand in hand with the relevant Ministries to expedite this emergency response without compromising the usual requisite due process and accountability requirements. “By focusing on the areas that are within the ambit of our mandate, we aim to be compliant both with our policies and legislative arrangements that govern our operations”, Heaven concluded.
