Six weeks after Hurricane Melissa’s devastating passage, the Burnt Savannah Early Childhood Institution in St. Elizabeth continues operating without a roof—yet radiates remarkable resilience through powerful community solidarity. Despite classrooms remaining exposed to the elements, the institution has become both a recipient and distributor of hope in the aftermath of the Category 5 storm.
Principal Elaine Williamson Smith detailed the extensive damage: “Our zinc roofing completely disappeared during the storm, and unfortunately, some community members took the remaining materials.” Yet the devastation triggered an extraordinary response. Former student Claston Bernard mobilized US Navy personnel and Mexican workers to install protective tarpaulins, while numerous organizations and individuals contributed rebuilding materials.
The school’s transformation into a community hub represents perhaps the most remarkable development. Partnering with World Central Kitchen, the institution now serves as a strategic distribution center for meals reaching hurricane-affected residents across multiple communities. “We’ve sent meals to Burnt Savannah Primary School, Knoxville Basic School, and Slipe,” Williamson Smith explained, emphasizing their careful scheduling of distributions to avoid disrupting classroom activities.
Educational challenges remain significant. Currently operating without electricity or internet, the school has shortened daily sessions to avoid afternoon rainfall. Attendance stands at approximately 50% of the pre-hurricane 105 students, with many families temporarily relocated or struggling with recovery. “Some households simply cannot send children to school yet,” the principal acknowledged, though she remains optimistic about gradual improvement.
The collective response has overwhelmed school administrators. Food For the Poor has committed building materials and care packages, while education ministry officials and the Early Childhood Commission have pledged reconstruction support. “God has sent persons to our help and our rescue,” Williamson Smith stated, reflecting the community’s profound gratitude amid ongoing challenges.
Despite the progress, complete recovery remains a distant goal. The principal’s ultimate vision includes fully restored operations for the entire educational and medical complex—the primary school, health center, and early childhood institution—enabling all students to resume regular face-to-face learning without environmental limitations.