WILLEMSTAD – Curaçao residents are being reminded that government emergency shelters provide only basic accommodation and should be used primarily by people who have nowhere else to go during a disaster.
The Ministry of Social Development, Labor and Welfare (SOAW) issued the reminder as part of its public awareness campaign during the fourth “Ami Ta Prepará Expo,” held on October 17 at Brionplein in Otrobanda.
Through Emergency Support Function 7 (ESF7), the ministry is responsible for managing social shelters and providing social assistance during crises and disasters.
According to the ministry, government shelters are designed to provide a safe temporary location for people who must evacuate their homes and cannot find accommodation elsewhere.
Albertus, a representative involved in the initiative, emphasized that residents should have realistic expectations about the facilities available.
“A shelter is not a hotel or a luxurious place. It is a safe location for everyone who has nowhere else to go during a disaster. That is why we ask people to first see whether they can stay with family or acquaintances. This allows us to keep shelters available for those who need them most,” she explained.
The ministry said emergency shelters generally provide a mattress, social guidance, first aid, and a secure place to remain during the emergency.
Residents should not expect the same level of comfort or services available in hotels or other commercial accommodation.
SOAW also clarified that government shelters do not open automatically whenever severe weather or another emergency is anticipated.
The Prime Minister determines when circumstances require the activation of emergency shelters. The government subsequently announces when evacuations are necessary and which shelters will open to the public.
The ministry identified three designated shelter locations in its public information:
Maris Stella, formerly Zwijsen College, on Grebbelinieweg in Steenrijk.
Eligia Martier, formerly St. Rosa de Lima, on Oosterbeekstraat in Cher Asile.
Kolegio Annie Koenraad on Kaya Tera Kora in Tera Kora.
Residents are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the shelter locations before an emergency occurs, while recognizing that access depends on official government activation.
The ministry stressed that emergency accommodation is an essential part of Curaçao's disaster response system, particularly for vulnerable residents who cannot arrange alternative shelter.
SOAW called on families with other safe accommodation options to make arrangements in advance so that government facilities remain available for those facing the greatest difficulties during a crisis.
The public is advised to follow official government channels for information about evacuation orders, shelter openings, and emergency procedures.