KINGSTON, Jamaica—In an unprecedented move demonstrating corporate social responsibility, M&M Jamaica Limited has announced the complete reallocation of its traditional Christmas celebration budget toward hurricane recovery initiatives. The company will cancel all festive activities and gift exchanges to concentrate resources on supporting communities devastated by Hurricane Melissa.
The strategic decision emerged from the company’s profound commitment to national solidarity during crisis. Management and staff representatives jointly endorsed the initiative, recognizing that supporting fellow citizens in their most vulnerable moment represents the truest form of seasonal celebration. Employees have further pledged to volunteer their time and expertise to ensure efficient delivery of aid.
Chairman Donald Mullings, whose home parish of St Elizabeth suffered severe hurricane damage, emphasized the urgency of coordinated response. “As both a corporation and as Jamaican citizens, we stand united with those facing disruption,” Mullings stated. “This extraordinary disaster demands extraordinary measures. Addressing instability in western Jamaica is essential for national stability.”
The comprehensive Hurricane Melissa Relief Programme encompasses multiple sectors:
• Emergency Provisions: Distribution of critical supplies including tarpaulins and care packages to 120 residents across hardest-hit St Elizabeth communities
• Educational Support: Financial assistance ranging from J$25,000 to J$50,000 for scholarship recipients and bursary students from affected regions
• Infrastructure Rehabilitation: Significant funding allocated for roof repairs at religious institutions and residential properties across multiple parishes
• Agricultural Recovery: Complete replacement of lost livestock plus one-month feed supply for farmers, with total allocation of J$1,000,000
The company confirmed Montego Bay is under consideration for inclusion in expanded relief efforts, demonstrating ongoing assessment of community needs.