Pepper farmers in Somerset devastated by Sandy

The charity organisation Food for the Poor says 70 per cent of pepper plants owned by small farmers as part of an Economic Diversification Programme in Somerset, St Thomas were damaged during Hurricane Sandy.

Agriculture and fishing manager at Food for the Poor, Selena Ledgister-Kellier says the assessment was made following investigations conducted by the organisation.

Mrs Ledgister-Kellier says existing conditions make it difficult for a proper assessment, but adds that many farmers lost peppers that were ready to be harvested.

But she gave an assurance that Food for the Poor will assist the farmers with their recovery efforts.

She says Food for the Poor will begin distribution of seedlings, fertilizers and welfare to expedite the recovery processas soon as waters from the Morant River recede.