Durable goods arrived for Statia hurricane victims

Durable goods to help victims of hurricanes Irma and Maria arrived recently on St. Eustatiusnday. The Unit of Social Affairs (SZW) has started the immediate distribution of the goods (refrigerators, beds, fan and stoves) in the second week of November to those persons who have already completed the application process. The distribution is being carried out by the SZW Unit.

Recognizing the needs of residents of Saba and St. Eustatius after hurricanes Irma and Maria the Unit of Social Affairs and Labour (SZW), has expanded its provisions to the fullest extent possible within the limits of the law. Because of this, special provisions were made. One of the special provisions is the speedy processing of requests of durable goods.

In order to accommodate persons affected by the hurricanes, SZW increased the minimum income criteria to one and a half times the minimum wage. The list of durable goods was also expanded to now include dining room sets, living room sets, sheets and pillows for those families who have lost everything. This adjustment has allowed more persons on Saba and St. Eustatius to qualify for emergency assistance. The process for application closes on December 31st. SZW will now make exceptions mainly for persons who were off island.

RCN