In the wake of a devastating hurricane, Discovery Bauxite has emerged as a vital lifeline for communities across St. Ann and neighboring parishes in Jamaica. With the National Water Commission (NWC) struggling to maintain supplies due to storm-related disruptions, the company’s water wells in Discovery Bay have become a crucial resource for residents, schools, agencies, and relief organizations. Water trucks, some traveling from as far as Montego Bay, have been loading at the facility to support relief efforts, including the World Central Kitchen team, which is preparing thousands of meals daily for distribution in the hardest-hit areas. The company’s open water standpipe near its public clinic in Jacks Lodge district has also seen heavy use, drawing residents from both its operating areas and beyond. Gratitude has poured in from individuals and organizations benefiting from the service. Pauline White, a small business operator from Farm Town, described the support as ‘a lifeline during a period when access to NWC supplies are down.’ Private truck operator Linburgh Gayle echoed this sentiment, noting the daily demand for water from schools, churches, families, and individuals in need. Discovery Bauxite has acknowledged the widespread hardship caused by the hurricane, pledging to continue its relief efforts as long as its pumps can handle the additional load. The company emphasized its commitment to assisting hundreds of people who travel from local communities and nearby parishes to access water, stating, ‘We are grateful for the opportunity to be of assistance in this time of national need.’
