Hurricane Melissa Leaves Behind a Staggering Homelessness Toll in Jamaica

Two weeks after the storm, the search for shelter intensifies

Two weeks have passed since Hurricane Melissa ripped through western Jamaica, leaving a trail of destruction that has displaced thousands of families. The once‑picturesque coastal towns are now a maze of collapsed roofs, flooded streets, and makeshift camps where residents struggle to find a place to call home.

Scale of the crisis

According to the Ministry of Housing, more than 12,000 individuals—equivalent to roughly 2,400 households—are currently without adequate shelter. In the hardest‑hit parishes of St. James, Trelawny, and Hanover, entire neighborhoods have been reduced to rubble, and many families are sleeping on tarps or in public schools that have been converted into temporary shelters.

Government response

The government has launched an emergency housing task force, pledging to deliver 5,000 temporary units within the next month. Prime Minister Dr. Alana Reid announced a JMD 10 billion relief package aimed at rebuilding homes and restoring basic services. However, critics argue that the aid distribution is hampered by logistical bottlenecks and a lack of clear coordination among agencies.

Community and NGO involvement

Local NGOs and international aid groups have stepped in to fill the gaps. The Jamaican Red Cross has set up three distribution centers providing blankets, food, and medical supplies. Meanwhile, the non‑profit Hope for Homes is coordinating volunteer teams to repair damaged roofs and construct low‑cost, hurricane‑resistant dwellings using locally sourced materials.

Challenges ahead

Despite these efforts, many obstacles remain. The island’s already strained supply chains are struggling to deliver building materials, and the upcoming rainy season threatens to exacerbate the situation. Experts warn that without a comprehensive, long‑term rebuilding strategy, the displaced families could face prolonged periods of uncertainty.

What comes next?

Officials say the next phase will focus on rapid assessment surveys to identify the most vulnerable households and prioritize them for permanent housing solutions. Community leaders are also urging the government to incorporate climate‑resilient designs into reconstruction plans, ensuring that future storms do not repeat the devastation wrought by Melissa.