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By Nakinskie Robinson
Disaster Risk Management Coordinator for the Rocky Point Disaster Risk Management Group, Reverend Norval Gayle, says it is unlikely that shelter dwellers will be left homeless come next week, despite a recent order to evacuate.
The group of 10, which includes a baby, was initially told to leave the Rocky Point Community Centre in Clarendon by October 31, but has been given an extension until early next week.
The individuals have been in the shelter since Hurricane Beryl in July.
While most have found alternative accommodation, a handful maintain that they have nowhere to go when the extension expires.
Reverend Gayle says while the authorities have been working to rebuild their homes, several delays have hampered the progress, resulting in the extended stay of those in the shelter.
"What is holding up the process though is a letter from SCJ Holdings that should go to Food for the Poor, giving them permission for these persons to get back their houses," he said, noting that, as far as he is aware, the letter has now been sent.
"But the persistent rain over the last two weeks or three weeks has halted work and so Food for the Poor has not been able to get into some of the areas to complete the housing stock for persons to receive those," added Reverend Gayle.
The Rocky Point disaster risk management coordinator, who is also chairman of the shelter management committee, said there is an apparent disconnect with what was communicated and what is likely to happen in relation to the evacuation.
He said those who have no contingency plan cannot be left without shelter.
"The deadline is upon us, but we don't have a choice because these persons cannot be put out on the street. These are our own community members. These are persons who we see from day to day, from time to time, and are living in the same area, the same vicinity."
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