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by pltm
(PLTM) - The Rotary Club of Tortola says it has called on one of its international partners, Habitat for Humanity, to help repair and rebuild homes within the BVI.
The Rotary Club has partnered with the government to assist with relief and recovery efforts within the Territory.
The club says the local housing needs of the Territory are too great and cannot be met solely with the help of local contractors.
Habitat for Humanity, a Rotary International program, is known for building homes for underprivileged persons in times of disasters. The group should arrive in the Territory within a month.
"By the end of this week, we hope to have a plan in place with Habitat for Humanity as far as the scope of work to be carried out and how many resources they can offer us here in the BVI," Rotary's Operations and Logistics Coordinator, Joseph Ryan said during a press conference held at the BVI FSC conference room yesterday, October, 17.
It was noted that Habitat for Humanity is quite adaptable, and once they get into a Territory, they familiarize themselves with building codes and other such areas.
"They will also be retrained by our people on the ground and guided by qualified contractors in the country," Ryan said.
Rotary's District Governor Elect, Delma Maduro said Habitat for Humanity has already been briefed on the type of structures, to ensure that the right team comes to help rebuild homes.
Though fewer than 100 persons remain in shelters in the BVI, housing remains a critical issue, as many homes were totally destroyed or partially damaged by Hurricanes Irma and Maria.
Many homes are also being further compromised by heavy rains and strong winds, which have been affecting the Territory during this Atlantic Hurricane Season.
The government in partnership with many international and local donors have already distributed over 3000 tarpaulins to address temporary housing needs, as people work to permanently repair their homes.
