It has been over a month now since the horrific Hurricane Irma struck Jost van Dyke and many other Caribbean islands – further damage arriving with Hurricane Maria.

Published 6 years ago, updated 5 years ago

As reported by the Jost Van Dykes Preservation Society (JVDPS) – http://jvdps.org/

In many ways, these storms have turned back the clock on the development of the last 50 years on the Islands, so there is a lot of work to do.

About 130 residents weathered the storms right on Jost, and there were few injuries.  Following a couple of harrowing weeks for basic supplies, some sort of ‘normal’ daily routine is developing.  But imagine your own reaction and response to the total loss of your home and income and having to scramble for food and water for your children in a battered community.

If you have not already seen this New York Times report, check this out. 

Recovery supplies and services provided by the UK and BVI government did help a lot, but on Jost so much real support came via the boaters from Puerto Rico and St. Croix who were delivering basic goods to JVD from shopping excursions on those islands – funded by some immediate donations to the Preservation Society and other appeals.  Hurricane Maria put a hold on some support, but now things are improving.

As a non-profit focused upon the conservation and sustainable development of Jost van Dyke, the JVDPS have managed – so far – to raise over $100,000 of support from over 700 donors.  In the short run, they are focusing on efforts and funds on the basic needs of the residents who have been victimized by the hurricane.  But there is so much more to do.

Executive Director, Susan Zaluski, was hurricane-delayed in Puerto Rico and got to Jost last Thursday.  She writes, “We are currently making a plan and need to consult with JVDPS Board of Directors and the Jost Van Dyke community to help identify needs.  Working with the community is key to our effectiveness and relevance.  Further, we need to work to ensure funds are used for wider public good. In the coming weeks, we will be meeting with JVD community members, setting up an advisory committee, and liaising with BVI and UK Government agencies so that we don’t duplicate what is already provided or planned by those large entities.”

Communication is still spotty, at best.  But there is a generally positive, wary attitude; and the support from donors that comes in many forms is greatly appreciated by the residents.

Stay up-to-date by following the JVDPS on facebook and on their web page.

(Editor’s Note: If you have updates for other Caribbean Islands affected by Irma and Maria, please send them to [email protected])

Also, see:

The latest insider’s view of the BVI reconstruction efforts

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