The Ministry of Social Development and Family Services has announced that the distribution of flood relief cheques is scheduled to begin tomorrow, Thursday 29 December 2022 at the Ministry’s Head Office, 39-43 St. Vincent Street, Port of Spain.

In a statement, the ministry noted that to date, one hundred and one (101) cheques have been processed and it is anticipated that a total of three hundred and sixty-nine (369) cheques will be available for distribution by the end of the week.

It was further noted that “contact will be made to persons whose cheques are available for collection. Only persons who are contacted by the Ministry should present themselves, with a valid form of identification, when collecting their cheques.”

The Ministry further advised that grants are being paid according to the receipt of the application utilising the ARCGIS system used by the Ministry of Rural Development and Local Government to assess and validate all claims being made. Disaster relief provided in this instance is intended to replace household items, school books and school clothing ONLY. All other payments for grants will be validated and paid subsequently.

“The Ministry, in its aggressive pursuit of bringing timely relief to all victims of flooding which occurred recently, will continue processing applications to ensure that all of the two thousand-plus (2000+) applications received to date, are processed as quickly as possible.”

The Ministry further reminds the public to avoid visiting its offices unless contacted, for collection of cheques. For all enquiries, persons may contact the toll-free call centre at 800 – 1673. The Ministry of Social Development and Family Services continues its commitment to the uplifting and supporting the vulnerable in our society, at this critical time.