分类： society

KINGSTON, Jamaica — In the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s devastation, communities across Jamaica, including Sandy Ground in St Elizabeth, Bluefields in Westmoreland, and Salt Spring and Barnett Lane in Montego Bay, St James, have received critical support from the Love & Harmony Cruise initiative. With the assistance of the Jamaica Constabulary Force and Senior Superintendent of Police Dr. Terrence Bent, the team ensured the secure and efficient distribution of essential supplies to hundreds of affected residents. Each care package was thoughtfully assembled, containing building materials, flashlights, food, toiletries, sanitary products, construction gloves, tarpaulin, water, batteries, toys, clothing, shoes, and other necessities. This effort represents Phase One of the Love & Harmony Cruise’s commitment to Jamaica’s recovery, with additional relief phases in the pipeline. Ronnie Tomlinson, Director of Marketing and Public Relations for Love & Harmony Cruise, emphasized the residents’ gratitude and the profound emotional impact of the aid. “The communities welcomed us with open arms, expressing heartfelt appreciation for the support during this challenging time,” Tomlinson noted. The initiative also reached shut-in residents who were unable to collect supplies themselves. Looking ahead, the Love & Harmony Cruise team plans to expand its efforts through partnerships and a special give-back initiative during its 2026 voyage aboard the luxurious Norwegian Jewel. The cruise, scheduled for April 1–6, 2026, will feature world-class entertainment and dining while continuing to support hurricane recovery efforts. “Our commitment to Jamaica is unwavering—this is not a one-time act but an ongoing mission,” Tomlinson affirmed.

In the wake of Hurricane Melissa, Food for the Poor has stepped up to lead both immediate and long-term recovery efforts in Jamaica. The nonprofit organization, which has been active in the country for over four decades, is collaborating with global partners to provide essential aid and rebuild devastated communities.

Ed Raine, CEO of Food for the Poor, described the hurricane as a ‘giant’ and a ‘wake-up call,’ comparing its devastation to previous storms like Hurricane Andrew, Dorian, and Maria. While Kingston and Spanish Town were spared direct hits, the scale of damage across the island remains staggering.

In the immediate aftermath, Food for the Poor has prioritized distributing food, water, and hygiene kits to affected communities. Working alongside organizations such as the World Food Program and World Central Kitchen, the charity has also distributed thousands of tarps to provide emergency shelter.

However, the organization’s focus is shifting toward long-term recovery. With a history of building over 35,000 homes in Jamaica, Food for the Poor is preparing for another major reconstruction effort. Raine emphasized that rebuilding homes is just one aspect of recovery; restoring livelihoods is equally critical. The organization is exploring micro-enterprise programs and providing farmers with tools, seeds, and equipment to help them regain their income sources.

Raine highlighted the importance of sustainable aid, noting that recovery will require years of commitment. Communities in areas like Black River and Crawford have been particularly hard-hit, losing not only homes but also their ability to earn a living. Food for the Poor aims to restore hope and normalcy by addressing both immediate needs and long-term challenges.

The organization is calling for continued public support to fund its recovery initiatives, emphasizing the importance of community empowerment and long-term sustainability. ‘We are here for the long term,’ Raine said. ‘Our mission is to help rebuild homes, restore hope, and get people back on track.’

ST ANN, Jamaica — The Urban Development Corporation (UDC) has officially reopened Turtle River Park in Ocho Rios, St Ann, following extensive cleanup and restoration efforts. In a media statement released on Tuesday, the UDC confirmed that the park is now fully prepared to welcome families, residents, and tourists alike. The corporation emphasized that Turtle River Park remains a cherished public space, offering a serene and accessible environment for relaxation, reflection, and quality family time. Visitors are encouraged to explore the park’s natural beauty, including its expansive lawns, scenic walking paths, and tranquil ambiance in the heart of Ocho Rios. The UDC expressed its enthusiasm for welcoming guests back to this beloved destination, which continues to be a cornerstone of community life and tourism in the region.

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.

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.