Kind Hearts Foundation, in partnership with Food For the Poor (FFP) Jamaica, has completed and donated 10 fully furnished houses to families who lost their homes during the passage of Hurricane Beryl last July.

In addition to the homes, Kind Hearts also donated $5 million to relief efforts across the south coast, including food and clothing items.

“These initiatives directly addressed the urgent needs of affected families in the communities of Clarendon and St Elizabeth,” the foundation said in a news release on Tuesday.

After Hurricane Beryl wreaked havoc across the island’s south coast, Kind Hearts Foundation recognised an immediate and pressing need for safe housing.

While the foundation has historically focused on building infant schools, having successfully established eight across Jamaica since 2012 in collaboration with FFP, the devastation caused by Beryl called for a swift response to support families in crisis.

Each of the 10 homes is a turnkey solution designed to provide comfort and stability, the foundation stated.

The homes have two bedrooms, a kitchen, living room, bathroom, and a loft, complete with essential furnishings including two beds, two armchairs, a sofa, a small kitchen table with chairs, and a mini solar panel and generator. Additionally, each home is equipped with a water tank to ensure residents have access to clean water.

While the floor plans are uniform, the families have infused their new homes with personal touches, from vibrant gardens to cherished family photos, creating spaces that reflect their unique identities and stories.

“We are deeply grateful to Food For the Poor for their continued partnership and support in making these homes a reality,” a release quotes Christina Hudson, chair of Kind Hearts Foundation.

“These homes not only provide shelter but also a sense of hope and belonging for families who have endured unimaginable loss. We believe everyone deserves a safe place to call home,” Hudson said.

“The donation of the homes marks a significant step in the recovery efforts for the communities affected by Hurricane Beryl. As families begin to settle into their new homes, Kind Hearts Foundation remains committed to supporting their long-term recovery and resilience,” the foundation said.

The foundation is asking anyone interested in donating to contact Christine Veira at cveira@stewartsautosales.com.