United Nations, September 22 (RHC)-- The United Nations Development Program (UNDP) has announced that, one year after hurricanes Irma and Maria, it has helped to mobilize $25 million to assist the Caribbean countries hardest hit by the storms. 

In a report entitled “Hurricanes Irma and Maria, One Year On: From Early Recovery to Long-term Resilience in the Caribbean," the UNDP also detailed that it provided cash to families in need, as well as helped in the rebuilding of the hardest hit islands, particularly Antigua and Barbuda, the British Virgin Islands, and Dominica. 

In addition, the UNDP said it has also supported the revision and use of improved building codes and restored over 800 buildings for the most needy people in Dominica, and Antigua and Barbuda, according to The Gleaner. 

The UNDP report also highlighted recovery activities days after Tropical Storm Isaac passed over several Caribbean islands.  It said the agency partnered with other UN departments, non-governmental organizations, as well as the private entities to facilitate recovery actions in affected communities. Courses were also provided to some communities to train people to rebuild their own communities. 

“We are honored that Caribbean countries affected by the devastating hurricanes one year ago trusted UNDP to support their recovery efforts and we are proud to have been working on the ground with governments -- at the national and local levels -- and with several partners since the immediate aftermath,” said UNDP Regional Director for Latin America and the Caribbean Luis Felipe Lopez-Calva. 

China's support of $5 million to the UNDP helped Dominica, and Antigua and Barbuda in their efforts to install new, more resilient rooftops.  Also, 488 buildings were restored, including three schools, five health care centers and the main hospital, according to The Gleaner.