KINGSTON, Jamaica – In a significant humanitarian response, Aventa Jamaica Limited has successfully concluded a comprehensive three-phase relief initiative aimed at restoring critical healthcare services in regions devastated by Hurricane Melissa. The operation resulted in the distribution of over 328 specialized care packages and emergency medical supplies to pharmacies throughout St Elizabeth, Westmoreland, and St James parishes.
The catastrophic hurricane caused extensive damage across western Jamaica, destroying business inventories, crippling infrastructure, and leaving vast territories without electrical power for extended periods. Throughout November, Aventa’s targeted relief effort focused on the most severely impacted communities, enabling frontline healthcare providers to resume operations amid challenging circumstances.
Phase one of the mission saw Aventa collaborate with its Health 2000 (H2K) division to support pharmacies in Santa Cruz and Black River within St Elizabeth parish. This initial distribution delivered 100 care packages to six pharmaceutical facilities struggling with storm aftermath.
During the second phase, relief operations shifted to Westmoreland parish, specifically addressing urgent needs in Savanna-la-Mar and White House communities. Eleven pharmacies received 119 care packages containing vital supplies including personal hygiene products, hydration solutions, and non-perishable medical items for storm-affected residents.
The final phase concentrated on Montego Bay and surrounding areas in St James parish, where unprecedented flooding reached depths of up to 11 feet in locations such as the Catherine Hall MegaMart complex. Aventa provided 109 emergency packages to 19 pharmacies and their staff members who confronted severe flood damage, prolonged power outages, and temporary displacement.
Pharmacy teams across all three parishes faced tremendous personal and professional challenges, with many experiencing structural damage to their facilities, loss of personal belongings, and temporary homelessness. Staffing levels plummeted to as low as 20% in some locations due to these circumstances. Initial damage assessments revealed that approximately 90% of buildings in certain communities suffered impacts, with some towns described as virtually decimated.
According to Karen Thomas, Pharmaceutical & Regulatory Manager at Aventa Jamaica, the initiative aimed to maintain healthcare continuity during a period of critical need. “When disaster strikes, the continuity of healthcare becomes even more vital,” Thomas stated. “Our mission extends beyond supplying quality products to standing with our partners and their communities during their most vulnerable moments.”
The company has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening resilience within Jamaica’s healthcare infrastructure, particularly during national emergencies, ensuring pharmacies can continue serving their communities when it matters most.