MINISTER of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, has joined efforts to provide much- needed relief to flood-hit communities by distributing some 412 hampers to affected households in the Moruca sub-district of Region One (Barima-Waini).

Hampers consisting of food supplies, and sanitation packages, were distributed to the people of Santa Cruz, Waikrebi, Chinese Landing, Kokerite, Kariako, Ayanna, Unity Grant, Kamwatta and Kumaka, by the minister on Saturday.

A press release from the Ministry of Housing and Water noted that Croal informed the residents that the hamper distribution is a part of a two-fold approach, which began with a flood assessment, conducted by the Regional Democratic Council.

He added that the response to the national disaster will not rest with the distribution of hampers, but will expand into a structured recovery effort to help restore the livelihoods of those affected, as he reaffirmed the government’s commitment to alleviating all affected citizens, the press release noted.

Riverine communities remain the most affected, with the continued heavy rainfall and high tides, rendering many inaccessible. The minister was accompanied on his visit by Regional Vice-Chairman, Annansha Peters.