By Cheryl Senhouse | Finance Innovation Director
When Hurricane Beryl swept through the Caribbean, it left devastation in its wake—but it also brought out the best in humanity. Take, for example, the story of a young mother in Carriacou -- Marie, not her real name. The storm destroyed her roof, soaked her belongings, and cut off water and electricity to her home. With her two small children in tow, Marie was forced to seek refuge in a temporary shelter, unsure of what the future held.
Thanks to the swift action of the Caribbean Climate-Smart Accelerator (CCSA) and the generosity of donors like you, Marie and hundreds like her found hope amidst the chaos. CCSA facilitated the transfer of the Hurricane Beryl Relief Fund to the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA), ensuring that critical aid could reach communities in St. Vincent & the Grenadines, Grenada, and the smaller islands of Carriacou and Petite Martinique. According to CDEMA's Situation Report #9, over 300 individuals across these islands are still in temporary shelters, with relief operations ongoing. Key support has included the transport of essential supplies, including water, and the provision of shelter materials to areas heavily impacted by the storm.
As of August 23, 2024, efforts have been concentrated on cleaning up debris, repairing key infrastructure, and providing essential services like water and health care. The restoration of water and electricity is progressing, with 50-60% of Carriacou now receiving power. ShelterBox has distributed 600 tents, and ongoing operations focus on the continued delivery of essential goods, like bottled water, to areas with damaged cisterns. The CDEMA response has been critical in ensuring that these relief efforts remain coordinated across the affected regions, including the management of temporary housing and the transport of relief supplies from mainland Grenada to the smaller islands of Carriacou and Petite Martinique.
Through these efforts, Marie received a ShelterBox tent, bottled water, and materials to rebuild her home. This effort has been a collaborative one, with contributions from several regional partners, such as UNICEF, USAID, and OCHA, alongside national agencies. The collective response aims to not only address immediate needs but also build resilience for future disasters. But none of it would have been possible without the support of donors who understood the urgency of Marie’s situation and acted.
While the road to recovery is long, your contributions ensured that families like Marie’s were not forgotten. Together, we are not only addressing immediate needs but also strengthening resilience for future storms. CCSA is proud to stand with CDEMA and other regional partners to bring hope and relief when it matters most.
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