In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, over 250 volunteers from St John’s Ambulance Jamaica and the JN Foundation sprang into action, delivering essential medical aid and first aid to nearly 800 residents in St Elizabeth and Westmoreland. Supported by the Jamaica Automobile Association (JAA), which facilitated transportation and provided free Wi-Fi via Starlink, the relief effort targeted communities still grappling with power outages and damaged infrastructure. Certified first aid responders, trainers, and healthcare assistants treated elderly residents who had lost medications and others injured during the storm but unable to access medical care due to impassable roads. Among those rescued was Vincent Wilson, an elderly diabetic from Barton Wharf, Lacovia, who was trapped in a collapsed home. Neighbours Morgan and his family cut through their fence to save him. Despite injuries, many residents, including Ramorio Solomon and Romeo Wright, continued to rebuild homes and assist neighbours. St John Ambulance CEO Duane Ellis highlighted the collaboration with organisations like Kiwanis International and universities, emphasizing the collection of critical data to guide follow-up interventions with the Ministry of Health and Wellness. Chairman Earl Jarret praised the volunteers’ compassion and professionalism, urging them to uphold the dignity of survivors. The initiative underscored the resilience of affected communities and the importance of coordinated disaster response.
St John Ambulance and JN Foundation deliver medical relief to hurricane survivors
