WHITEHOUSE, Westmoreland — A strategic partnership between the Sandals Foundation and RUBiS Energy Jamaica has injected critical resources into hurricane-ravaged fishing communities, offering a lifeline to more than 100 local fishers. The joint donation valued at $3.5 million JMD comprises 120 rolls of specialized fishing wire and 6,720 liters of UltraTec 90 gasoline, directly addressing the operational paralysis caused by Hurricane Melissa’s devastating passage.
The comprehensive relief initiative saw immediate implementation with distribution events commencing Friday. The fishing wire allocation enables artisans to construct approximately 600 replacement fish pots—essential equipment for sustainable harvesting. Simultaneously, RUBiS Energy Jamaica’s fuel contribution provides each fisher with 56 liters of high-quality gasoline, effectively restarting marine operations after weeks of forced inactivity.
Diego Salmon, management lead at Whitehouse Fish Sanctuary, contextualized the disaster’s psychological toll: “The hurricane’s aftermath presents constant reminders of our collective loss. While the reconstruction needs remain enormous, our fishing communities demonstrate remarkable resilience. This support represents more than material aid—it symbolizes hope and tangible progress toward normalcy.”
Corporate leadership emphasized the strategic importance of livelihood restoration. RUBiS Energy Jamaica CEO Michel Malatino stated: “Our involvement targets economic reactivation through sustainable means. Helping fishers return to their traditional occupations stimulates household stability and community rebuilding through multidimensional recovery.”
Local fisher Oneil Smith confirmed the intervention’s practical impact: “With our boats and equipment destroyed, income generation became impossible. This assistance provides the necessary foundation to restart commercial activities and support our families.”
The Whitehouse Fish Sanctuary, established in 2013 as a marine conservation initiative, has dramatically expanded its role post-hurricane. Beyond its ecological mandate, the organization now coordinates distribution of emergency supplies, provides free ice for food preservation, and maintains solar-powered charging stations alongside newly installed street lighting for enhanced community safety.
The Sandals Foundation has integrated psychological support into recovery efforts through partnerships with Kahle Journey and the Jamaica Psychological Association. According to Executive Director Heidi Clarke: “Community strengthening remains central to our mission. By restoring fisheries—a dual source of income and nutrition—we activate crucial recovery mechanisms while honoring our commitment to sustainable development.”
Future recovery phases will prioritize environmental rehabilitation. Salmon outlined forthcoming priorities: “After achieving personal sustenance, we’ll conduct comprehensive reef assessments and initiate coral replanting programs. Our sanctuary serves as the cornerstone for both ecological and economic restoration.”