KINGSTON, Jamaica — In response to the devastation caused by Category Five Hurricane Melissa, the Ministry of Labour and Social Security has successfully distributed more than 30,000 food packages to affected households across the island. This extensive relief effort was carried out in collaboration with all 14 parishes and involved key partners such as the Jamaica Defence Force, the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management, Food for the Poor, the Jamaica Manufacturers and Exporters Association, private sector entities, and various faith-based and community organizations.
Of the total packages, 22,156 were directly distributed by the ministry, while contributions from the private sector and other partners accounted for an additional 8,500. Portfolio Minister Pearnel Charles Jr praised the collective effort, emphasizing the importance of partnership and unity in disaster response. ‘Through partnership, foresight, and unity, we have demonstrated that effective disaster response depends not only on preparedness but on compassion and collaboration,’ he stated.
The ministry remains committed to coordinating with parish offices and humanitarian partners to ensure that isolated communities are reached and that the most vulnerable populations continue to receive support.