NHT extends deadline for disaster relief assistance to November 30

Jamaicans affected by Hurricane Beryl now have more time to apply for financial assistance through the National Housing Trust (NHT).

The agency has advised that the application deadline for both the Disaster Relief Grant and the Special Home Improvement Loan has been extended to November 30.

Approximately $300 million has been set aside for the grant relief, and eligible households can access up to $300,000 through this initiative.

“The Disaster Relief Grant is primarily for our lower-income contributors who, perhaps, may not be in a position to take on our Special Home Improvement Loan, probably because of age or other factors such as not earning anymore or not [having] a steady or stable job,” said Assistant General Manager for Corporate Communications and Public Affairs, Dwayne Berbick.

He stressed that no repayment is required.

Berbick added that the initiative is also being extended to vulnerable individuals who may not be NHT contributors but have family members who are beneficiaries.

This means that children can apply on behalf of elderly parents whose homes were damaged, ensuring that support reaches those who need it most.

For those needing greater assistance, the Special Home Improvement Loan offers funding of up to $1.5 million. This can cover essential repairs such as roofing and structural fixes. 

Berbick is encouraging both past and current mortgagors to seize this opportunity, emphasising that those who have previously accessed other NHT loan products remain eligible to apply.

“We understand the challenges faced by many of our contributors, and this is our way of providing crucial support. We encourage qualified mortgagors to utilise this opportunity and access the funds they may need,” he said.

To qualify for the loan facility, applicants must reside at the property in question and their name must appear on the title.

The interest rates for the loan will range from zero to five per cent, calculated based on income levels.

Individuals are encouraged to visit the NHT's website at www.nht.gov.jm or contact the Trust directly for more details on eligibility criteria, application procedures, and to access the grant.

- JIS News

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