In a significant step toward recovery, the KFC outlet in Black River, Jamaica, has fully resumed commercial operations seven weeks after Hurricane Melissa devastated the island’s southwestern region. Operated by Restaurants of Jamaica (ROJ), the location had been functioning exclusively as a emergency meal production center in the immediate aftermath of the late October storm, distributing thousands of free meals to affected residents.
Despite returning to normal customer service, the restaurant continues its humanitarian mission by donating an additional 1,000 meals daily to support families, emergency shelters, and essential workers throughout the ongoing recovery period. This effort is part of ROJ’s broader national feeding initiative, which has provided over 75,000 meals across multiple parishes since the hurricane made landfall on October 28.
The Black River facility has emerged as a critical distribution hub for St. Elizabeth, one of the hardest-hit areas. Floyd Green, Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries and local Member of Parliament, praised the operation during a recent site visit, noting that most meals are prepared by team members who themselves suffered hurricane-related losses. “Having this level of support coming directly from within St. Elizabeth makes a real difference on the ground,” Green observed, highlighting the program’s community-based approach.
ROJ Marketing Director Tina Matalon described the reopening as symbolizing both recovery and ongoing commitment, with the location now serving a dual purpose of commercial operations and sustained relief efforts. Restaurant Manager Gaylen Skervin expressed profound pride in her team’s resilience, noting that many staff members experienced severe trauma and property loss yet consistently reported to work. For these employees, the restaurant has become a sanctuary—a place of purpose and stability amid widespread devastation.