Oranjestad- A number of durable goods to help victims of hurricanes Irma and Maria has recently arrived on St. Eustatius. The Unit of Social Affairs (SZW) has in the meantime started with distribution of the goods, which included refrigerators, beds, fans and stoves. The goods are handed out to those hurricane victims who had already completed the application process. The distribution is being carried out by the SZW Unit.

Recognizing the needs of residents of Saba and St. Eustatius after hurricanes Irma and Maria, the Unit of Social Affairs and Labor (SZW) has expanded its provisions to the fullest extent possible within the limits of the law. Because of this, special provisions were made. One of the special provisions is the speedy processing of requests of durable goods.

To accommodate persons affected by the hurricanes, SZW increased the minimum income criteria to one and a half times the minimum wage. The list of durable goods was also expanded to now include dining room sets, living room sets, sheets and pillows for those families who have lost everything. This adjustment has allowed more persons on Saba and St. Eustatius to qualify for emergency assistance. The process for application closes on December 31st. SZW will now make exceptions mainly for persons who were off island.