Trinidad and Tobago faces an unprecedented surge in economic hardship this holiday season, with charitable organizations reporting overwhelming demand for basic assistance. Multiple relief agencies including Is There Not A Cause (Itnac), Living Water Community, Salvation Army, Sewa International TT, TT Woman’s Forum, and the Coosal’s Group of Companies confirm alarming increases in requests for food, shelter, and financial support across the nation.
Shelters have reached full capacity while emergency food supplies have been exhausted. Organizations note dramatic rises in unemployment-related crises, with many unable to meet rental payments despite seeking employment. The situation has become so severe that recently mobilized charities, including those providing hurricane relief to Jamaica, now find themselves stretched beyond their operational limits.
Roman Catholic Archbishop Jason Gordon has issued an urgent appeal for public support, emphasizing that poverty levels have reached unprecedented severity. Speaking at a December 14 mass, Gordon urged those with means to sponsor meals for struggling families, noting that such gestures would provide critical relief during this difficult period.
The current administration acknowledges inheriting these challenges from previous governments. While October budget measures introduced some support mechanisms including VAT removal on essential food items, period poverty initiatives, and utility assistance programs, these interventions appear insufficient against the scale of current need.
Government Whip Barry Padarath revealed that ministers have begun personally contributing to provide food and beverages at ministerial Christmas events, setting an example the archbishop hopes the public will follow. The situation suggests that comprehensive reforms to social safety nets may be necessary, alongside enhanced support for civil society organizations with established community distribution networks.