The Ministry of the People, Social Development and Family Services continued its ongoing national disaster relief efforts on Monday 24 November, 2025, with another distribution exercise that brought comfort and stability to affected families in the Sangre Grande region.
Held at the Coryal Secondary School, the event was a continuation of the Ministry’s outreach to families across Trinidad who have been affected by recent severe weather. Over the past few months, the Ministry has been present in several communities, including Penal/Debe, Siparia, Chaguanas, Couva/Tabaquite/Talparo, Tunapuna/Piarco, and now Sangre Grande, bringing support directly to households that need assistance the most. The aim is to ensure that every affected family receives timely and meaningful help as they work to rebuild comfort, stability and peace of mind.
Delivering the feature address, the Honourable Vandana Mohit, Minister of the People, Social Development and Family Services, reminded attendees that the event was more than a formal presentation, it was a reaffirmation of the Ministry’s commitment to remain present, responsive and compassionate in the face of hardship.
Yesterday’s distribution provided assistance to fourteen households (14) and fifty-five individuals (55) with grants totalling ninety-eight thousand five hundred dollars ($98,500.00). This included:
· Household Items Grants totalling eighty-eight thousand five hundred dollars ($88,500.00) for fourteen families (14)
· Clothing Grants totalling ten thousand dollars ($10,000.00) for ten recipients (10)
Minister Mohit highlighted that the Ministry’s strengthened approach ensures that families receive support swiftly, restoring a sense of stability after losing essential items such as appliances, furniture and clothing.
“Too many times in the past disaster relief was slow and uncertain. Families suffered twice. Once from the disaster itself and then from the long wait for support. Under this Government those days are gone. We respond with compassion, clarity and urgency because disaster does not give families the luxury of time,” the Minister said.
Also addressing the gathering was the Honourable Shivanna Sam, Member of Parliament for Cumuto/Manzanilla and Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Public Utilities. She praised families for their strength and expressed her heartfelt support.
“I stand before you with a heart filled with humility and responsibility. This event is not only about the financial assistance being provided. It is also about acknowledging the challenges you have faced. It is about recognising your resilience and ensuring that support reaches those who need it most,” MP Sam stated.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to remain close to communities before, during and after emergencies. Staff were commended for their dedicated service, and residents were praised for their patience, courage and determination during this challenging period.