作者： admin

WESTMORELAND, Jamaica — In the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s devastation, a mother and her three children in Westmoreland received a glimmer of hope on Saturday evening. Under the “Adopt-a-Family” initiative, the family was gifted a repurposed shipping container, transformed into a functional home, marking a pivotal moment in their recovery journey. This initiative, led by Westmoreland Eastern Member of Parliament Dr. Dayton Campbell, connects corporate and private donors with families affected by the hurricane, offering essential support such as food, clothing, and shelter.

Dr. Campbell emphasized the broader impact of the program, stating, ‘The aftermath of a hurricane is measured in more than damaged infrastructure; it is measured in shattered lives and lost dignity. What we are doing here is more than providing shelter. We are restoring a sense of security, normalcy, and the belief that a community will not abandon its most vulnerable.’

The first container home was generously donated by Tara Playfair-Scott, who provided not only the unit but also essential items like a bed, food, hygiene products, children’s clothing, and water. The container is equipped with a bathroom, a small kitchenette, solar and regular lighting, and electrical outlets, offering a lifeline to the family.

For Purran, the mother of three, the gesture was overwhelming. ‘Before this, the sky was our only roof,’ she shared emotionally. ‘Now, I can lock a door, cook a meal, and give my children a bed. This is a blessing I cannot put into words.’

Playfair-Scott, inspired by the dire need, launched a GoFundMe campaign to fund additional container homes for other displaced families. ‘This is about community on a global scale,’ she urged. ‘Every donation brings us closer to delivering another home to a family in need.’

A second container home, donated by reggae artist Buju Banton, was intended for delivery on the same day. However, logistical challenges caused by rain, darkness, and debris-blocked roads delayed the process. Dr. Campbell confirmed that crews are working tirelessly to clear the path, with delivery expected in the coming days.

Authorities in Manchester, Jamaica, have issued a stern warning to the public regarding the Sedburgh main road near Christiana, following a hazardous breakaway that has compromised the safety of the area. The Manchester Police are urging motorists to exercise extreme vigilance when using this route and, where feasible, to opt for the Spring Ground main road as an alternative when traveling toward Spalding. The advisory comes in the wake of a harrowing incident on Tuesday, where a driver narrowly avoided severe injuries after his Suzuki vehicle overturned off the road due to the breakaway. The police emphasize the importance of adhering to safety measures and choosing safer routes until the issue is resolved.

KINGSTON, Jamaica — In response to the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa, the Society of St Vincent de Paul (SVP) Jamaica has amplified its outreach initiatives to aid affected communities. This effort aligns with the organization’s enduring mission to assist the island’s most vulnerable populations. Founded in Paris, France, in 1833, the SVP is a global Catholic Christian non-profit operating in 153 countries. Its presence in Jamaica dates back to 1904, starting with the Trinity Conference at the Holy Trinity Cathedral under Bishop Charles Gordon. Today, the society boasts 33 active conferences across the island, each linked to a Catholic church. Members offer both spiritual and material support, including prayer, clothing, food, educational assistance, medication, transportation, and even burial services for those in need. In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, the SVP reaffirmed its dedication to providing physical and spiritual comfort to those suffering, particularly as many were left without food, shelter, or hope. Patrice Mitchell, President of the SVP Jamaica, highlighted the organization’s swift response, with members collaborating with parishes to assess needs and distribute aid. Relief efforts have already commenced in severely impacted areas, including Montego Bay and Falmouth. The society delivered 152 care packages to Montego Bay and supported relief initiatives at St Joseph’s Church in Falmouth. Additionally, 100 care packages were distributed between All Saints in Refuge and African Martyrs of Uganda in Falmouth, while 50 packages containing food and essentials were provided through Sacred Heart in Montego Bay. Clothing items for both children and adults were also distributed. The SVP prepared special care boxes for priests to share with affected individuals, containing toiletries, soap, shampoo, and other hygiene essentials. Members from the St Paul de Cross Conference were deployed to assess damage in Magoty and Black River, where significant destruction was reported. The society pledges to continue its support as assessments progress and needs evolve.