Government to distribute building materials to help poor families repair homes

The government is preparing to receive what officials describe as the largest-ever shipment of building materials imported into Antigua and Barbuda, aimed at assisting low-income households and residents living in wooden structures with critical home repairs.

Director-General of Communications Maurice Merchant said the shipment—ordered under a new social housing support initiative—will arrive before the end of November and be used to help vulnerable families carry out renovations and reconstruction works.

“This is the largest order of material coming into Antigua and Barbuda at any one time by any entity,” Merchant said, noting that the supplies will be distributed to support the poor and indigent.

The program complements ongoing projects funded through the Department of the Environment, including model homes under construction for the Rastafarian community and affordable housing efforts supported by climate financing mechanisms.

Merchant said the initiative forms part of the government’s broader plan to strengthen resilience, improve living conditions, and ensure that social assistance reaches those most in need.