Chinese Consulate donates USD$105,275 for Hurricane Relief

Project narrative

During the week of November 1st 2017, the Chinese Consulate in Willemstad donated a check worth USD$105,275 to the Government of Sint Maarten. The donation served as budgetary support for the reconstruction of Schools and Homes after the devastation caused by hurricane Irma. The donation was handed over by the Vice Consul and received by Prime Minister William Marlin. As of 16 August 2018 the money was utilized with the Consulate-General’s approval for start-up and monthly costs associated with the Hurricane Irma Reintegration Program Shelter, which is located in Sucker Garden. The Hurricane Irma Reintegration Program Shelter (HIRPS) aims to help homeless people reintegrate themselves back into society after being displaced as a result of the devastation suffered by Hurricane Irma in 2017. There are Three Social Workers active at the shelter, whose tasks include; counseling, assisting with resumes and job coaching, assisting with find apartments for rent, assisting the seniors in addition to several other tasks. According to local media, the shelter was scheduled to close in January 2020, however the program has been extended twice since then, and continues to operate as of June 2021. The shelter is operated by the Dr. J Foundation.