Residents of St Elizabeth and Westmoreland, severely affected by Hurricane Melissa, are set to receive critical relief through the efforts of the Forbes Family Foundation, a U.S.-based non-profit organization. Founded by Dr. Ariel Forbes, a Jamaican-born oral surgeon, the foundation has outlined a comprehensive two-phase plan to aid recovery in the impacted regions. The first phase focuses on immediate support, including the distribution of essential supplies such as water, canned goods, generators, solar power banks, clothing, and cleaning materials. The second phase will address long-term recovery, providing construction materials like drywall, cement, tiles, and power tools to rebuild damaged homes. Dr. Forbes emphasized the urgency of the situation, noting that food tents will be established in Black River, St Elizabeth, and either Darliston or Whitehouse, Westmoreland, to serve hot meals to those in need. Despite initial flight cancellations, Dr. Forbes is scheduled to arrive in Jamaica on November 12, with supplies already en route via sea freight. The foundation is seeking logistical support to transport these items from Kingston to the affected parishes. Motivated by her Jamaican heritage and personal ties to the region, Dr. Forbes expressed her commitment to helping communities recover from the devastation. The Forbes Family Foundation has also launched a fundraiser to support these relief efforts, underscoring their dedication to rebuilding lives and restoring hope in the wake of Hurricane Melissa.
US-based Forbes Family Foundation to deliver hurricane relief to Westmoreland and St Elizabeth
