The Ministry of the People, Social Development and Family Services has responded to an incident in the Laventille area where a house collapsed due to the heavy rainfall experienced across the country. Through efforts coordinated by the National Social Development Programme (NSDP), the Ministry demonstrated its commitment to protecting and supporting vulnerable individuals and families affected by disasters across Trinidad and Tobago.
On May 18, 2025, the Ministry received a report from the Disaster Management Unit of the Ministry of Rural Development and Local Government regarding the collapse of a home located at LP #53B1 Eastern Quarry, Laventille. The incident was triggered by heavy rainfall, which caused a neighbouring retaining wall to collapse onto the home of Ms. Debra Woods. The impact resulted in significant structural damage to the property and minor personal injuries to Ms. Woods, who has since been forced to temporarily relocate to the home of a friend.
On May 19, 2025, officers of the NSDP conducted a site visit and client interview with Ms. Woods. Immediate relief was provided in the form of a temporary food support card valued at $510.00. Ms. Woods was also advised of her eligibility for additional grants under the Ministry’s emergency relief support, including:
- Rental Assistance Grant of up to $2,500.00 per month for a period of three months
- Household Items Grant of up to $10,000.00 for the replacement of furniture and appliances
- Clothing Grant of up to $1,000.00
The NSDP is also actively working with Ms. Woods to finalise her application and obtain the relevant documentation to access these grants. The Ministry’s National Family Services Division has also been engaged to provide psychosocial support, ensuring that Ms. Woods receives the emotional and social assistance needed during this challenging time.
The Ministry takes this opportunity to remind the public of its crucial role as a second responder in the event of national disasters. Through its various support services, the Ministry provides emergency relief to individuals and families rendered vulnerable by unforeseen events. The types of assistance available through the Ministry include:
- Household Items Grant – up to $10,000.00 per household
- Temporary Food Support – $510.00 per household
- Clothing Grant – up to $1,000.00 per household member
- School Supplies Grant – up to $700.00 per child (Primary) and up to $1,000.00 per child (Secondary)
- Rental Assistance Grant – up to $2,500.00 per month for three months
- Minor House Repair Assistance – up to $20,000.00 in materials only
- Sanitary Plumbing Assistance – up to $15,000.00 in materials only
- House Wiring Assistance – up to $15,000.00 in materials only
- Psychosocial Support – including counselling, referrals and advocacy services
The Ministry of the People, Social Development and Family Services remains steadfast in its mission to ensure that no one is left behind in the face of adversity. Persons in need of assistance are encouraged to contact the Ministry via its network of service centres or visit www.social.gov.tt for more information