IOM improving conditions in shelters, with repairs& Core solutions for Some 1000 vulnerable families

The United Nations Migration Agency (IOM) is supporting Dominica in improving the conditions of people living in emergency shelters and providing roof repairs and Core Shelter solutions for over 1000 vulnerable families in affected communities in the north east, west central and north west of the island.  This follows the passage of Hurricane Maria, which destroyed almost 20% of the housing stock, and caused major damage to another 55% of the buildings, as announced by the Government of Dominica and the recent UNDP Building Damage Assessment.
 
At present, potential beneficiaries in the north eastern village of Woodford hill are being assessed by IOM and roof repair works are at different stages for close to 20 households so far in that community.  In total, IOM intends to provide shelter solutions for almost 150 households in that area, and to undertake similar work in Marigot, Wesley, Calibishie, Bense and Anse de Mai in the North-east.
 
On the West Coast, IOM is collaborating with Village Councils and other community leaders to assess the most vulnerable beneficiaries, and to begin roof repairs and building of Core Shelters at Morne Rachette with intentions to move quickly to Colihaut, Dublanc and Bioche.  Engineers, Architects, Carpenters and contractors in these areas who are interested in practical training in techniques for Building Back Better, and to work for pay on community recovery programs, are asked to contact their village council or the IOM to indicate their interest.
 
Portsmouth, Glanvillia, Picard, Salisbury, St. Joseph and Layou Valley are also targeted for assistance in the form of roof repairsor by providing Core Shelters to vulnerable families who have lost their roof or in some cases their home.  Core Shelters are small units, built in accordance with the Building Guidelines, and designed in such a way that they can be expanded on.
 
There are widespread Housing needs in some communities after the passage of Hurricane Maria. Not all households in the affected communities can be assisted, therefore key groups have been identified in line with criteria endorsed by the Ministry of Social Services, Gender and Family Affairs, as having the least capacity to recover without support.The shelter recovery program being implemented by the IOM is funded with aid from the UK government UK, European Commission humanitarian agency ECHO, and the government of Australia.