This occasion, the second of its kind since assuming office was a campaign promise by the Philip J. Pierre led administration and has received appreciation from members of the public. Monday's ceremony saw the donation being received by the Accountant General, Mr. Matthew Branford to be deposited into the Consolidated Fund where the money will be administered from. The press release from the Office of the Prime Minister stated as follows, "The anxiety of becoming homeless and dispossessed as a result of a fire and other natural and man-made hazards can feel overwhelming. Survivors of house fires confront uncertainties and endure tribulation. Poor and low-income households typically can’t afford home insurance, making starting over after losing everything even more daunting.

Poor and low-income households looking to rebuild their lives after a tragedy can depend on the Hon. Philip J. Pierre Administration for support.

With the Pierre-led Administration, all hope is not lost. Prime Minister Pierre immediately reinstated the Distress Support Fund (DSF) after assuming Office in 2021.

The Prime Minister’s empathy for citizens in distress inspired Taiwan to partner with the Government of Saint Lucia to re-establish the DSF. In 2023, Taiwan’s contribution to the DSF increased its annual allocation to a historic $1 million.

On June 3, 2024, Taiwan Ambassador to Saint Lucia, H.E. Peter Chen, handed over $800,000 to the DSF, ensuring Saint Lucians in need can rely on the government for assistance with putting their lives back together.

Reinstating the DSF demonstrates the Pierre Administration’s commitment to protecting the most vulnerable members of our society and assures the public that they can depend on the government for support when they need it most."