In the wake of Hurricane Melissa, Food for the Poor has stepped up to lead both immediate and long-term recovery efforts in Jamaica. The nonprofit organization, which has been active in the country for over four decades, is collaborating with global partners to provide essential aid and rebuild devastated communities.
Ed Raine, CEO of Food for the Poor, described the hurricane as a ‘giant’ and a ‘wake-up call,’ comparing its devastation to previous storms like Hurricane Andrew, Dorian, and Maria. While Kingston and Spanish Town were spared direct hits, the scale of damage across the island remains staggering.
In the immediate aftermath, Food for the Poor has prioritized distributing food, water, and hygiene kits to affected communities. Working alongside organizations such as the World Food Program and World Central Kitchen, the charity has also distributed thousands of tarps to provide emergency shelter.
However, the organization’s focus is shifting toward long-term recovery. With a history of building over 35,000 homes in Jamaica, Food for the Poor is preparing for another major reconstruction effort. Raine emphasized that rebuilding homes is just one aspect of recovery; restoring livelihoods is equally critical. The organization is exploring micro-enterprise programs and providing farmers with tools, seeds, and equipment to help them regain their income sources.
Raine highlighted the importance of sustainable aid, noting that recovery will require years of commitment. Communities in areas like Black River and Crawford have been particularly hard-hit, losing not only homes but also their ability to earn a living. Food for the Poor aims to restore hope and normalcy by addressing both immediate needs and long-term challenges.
The organization is calling for continued public support to fund its recovery initiatives, emphasizing the importance of community empowerment and long-term sustainability. ‘We are here for the long term,’ Raine said. ‘Our mission is to help rebuild homes, restore hope, and get people back on track.’