KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a remarkable demonstration of corporate social responsibility, Salada Foods has redirected its year-end celebrations toward supporting agricultural communities devastated by Hurricane Melissa. More than 40 employees from the company’s Kingston headquarters assembled over 600 essential care packages for distribution to struggling farmers in St Elizabeth.
The initiative marked the conclusion of Salada’s 2025 production cycle at its Bell Road manufacturing facility. The effort was spearheaded by General Manager Tamii Brown and notably included participation from teachers and students of Jebb Memorial Basic School, an institution adopted by the company.
Brown emphasized the company’s philosophical approach: “Salada operates within an interconnected ecosystem sustained by close relationships with people, communities, and partners. Our farmers represent a crucial component of this system; their hardships directly affect us all. These relief packages symbolize our mutual bonds and profound dedication to assisting farmers, families, and neighbors during periods of adversity.”
The care packages contained vital food supplies and hygiene products, alongside Salada’s recently introduced sorrel hibiscus beverage—a traditional Jamaican drink launched by the company in November 2025.
The initiative garnered official recognition from Floyd Green, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Mining, who visited during packing operations. Minister Green stated: “I commend Salada for this intervention, particularly as we approach the Christmas season. Many farmers have returned to their lands but continue to face extremely challenging conditions. This assistance significantly alleviates their burden by providing essential items to sustain them throughout this period.”
In a departure from convention, the company replaced its customary annual staff party with this humanitarian effort, choosing instead to deliver tangible support to agricultural workers following the hurricane’s destruction.
Following the relief operation, Salada turned its attention internally to acknowledge outstanding employee contributions through its departmental ‘Gem Awards.’ Recipients included Akeele Johnson (Warehouse), Duane Taylor (Sanitation), Anthony Anglin (Production), Peter Collins (Engineering and Maintenance), Richard Thomas (Accounts), and Karimah Shepherd (Quality and Laboratory).
Brown praised the awardees: “Our Gems have demonstrated extraordinary diligence, commitment, and a consistent willingness to exceed expectations this year. They truly embody the values that define Team Salada.”