In a heartwarming pre-Christmas gesture, a single mother from St. Elizabeth, Jamaica, has been gifted a fully constructed two-bedroom home after Hurricane Melissa rendered her family homeless in October. Novia Russell, a mother of three who also cares for her elderly mother and young niece, received the keys to her new residence on December 23 through a collaborative initiative between VM Group and the charity Food For the Poor.
The Category 5 hurricane had struck southwestern Jamaica on October 28, delivering devastating blows to infrastructure and leaving many residents without shelter. Russell’s previous dwelling, already in suboptimal condition before the storm, was completely destroyed during the natural disaster, forcing her family to endure weeks of displacement.
At the formal handover ceremony, emotional remarks highlighted the profound impact of the housing project. ‘This house represents an unimaginable blessing,’ Russell expressed with gratitude. ‘My children finally have a secure environment, and I extend my deepest appreciation to VM and Food for the Poor. May divine providence enable you to extend similar grace to other families in need.’
VM Group’s leadership emphasized the philosophical underpinnings of their corporate social responsibility. Chairman Michael McMorris articulated that the initiative reflects the organization’s dedication to supporting communities during crises. ‘Our board felt morally compelled to intervene,’ McMorris stated. ‘This residence symbolizes our pledge that no family should be abandoned during national hardships. We perceive this structure not merely as a house but as the foundation for a true home that will nurture family growth and stability.’
Echoing this sentiment, VM Group’s President and CEO Courtney Campbell reframed the project as exceeding conventional charity. ‘VM was established on the ethos of mutual aid—people helping people. Following natural disasters, our responsibility transcends financial services. This home embodies safety, security, and hope, mirroring the values that have directed our organization for generations.’
Food For the Poor’s Executive Director Kivette Silvera acknowledged the power of collaborative efforts in addressing humanitarian needs. ‘We recognize that transformative work requires partnerships,’ Silvera noted. ‘Our collaboration with VM Group proved indispensable. Completing this project before Christmas was a priority, and through joint dedication, we successfully achieved this timeline.’
The newly constructed home in Myersville stands as testament to effective cross-sector partnerships addressing post-disaster recovery while restoring dignity to vulnerable families through tangible community support.