分类： society

Raheem Sterling, the Chelsea winger, and his family experienced a harrowing ordeal last weekend when burglars broke into their Berkshire residence. The incident occurred on Saturday while Sterling, his partner Paige Milian, and their children were at home. The intruders were reportedly confronted by Sterling, causing them to flee without stealing any items.

Sterling’s representative confirmed the incident on Wednesday, stating, “We can confirm that Raheem Sterling was the victim of a home break-in this weekend. He and his children were present at the time. While this was a severe violation of privacy and safety, we are grateful that he and his loved ones are unharmed.” The representative also urged the public to respect the family’s privacy during this difficult time.

This is not the first time Sterling’s home has been targeted. In December 2022, burglars broke into his Surrey property while he was competing in the World Cup in Qatar, forcing him to return home early. During that incident, valuables worth £300,000 ($393,000) were stolen. Additionally, in 2018, thieves attempted to break into his Cheshire home but fled when the alarm system was activated.

Sterling’s recent challenges extend beyond personal security. He has yet to feature for Chelsea this season after being sidelined by manager Enzo Maresca. Following a disappointing loan spell with Arsenal last season, Sterling has been training separately from Chelsea’s first-team squad after failing to secure a transfer away from Stamford Bridge.

KINGSTON, Jamaica — A casual weekly dominoes game among friends has evolved into a significant humanitarian initiative. The Shats Domino Group, a close-knit WhatsApp community of business owners and long-time friends, has transformed their Monday gatherings in Cherry Gardens, St Andrew, into a powerful force for good. Known for their spirited dominoes matches and lively debates on local and global issues, the group has now channeled their camaraderie into raising over $2.75 million for Hurricane Melissa recovery efforts in Jamaica. Carlton Hume, the group’s president, reflected on the shift, stating, ‘It just dawned on us that maybe we can do something more meaningful. What started as a simple fundraiser has turned into something truly wonderful.’ The funds will be donated to American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ), an organization praised by the group for its extensive work across the island. Dwight Moore, a member of the group, emphasized that giving back has always been a core value among the diverse members. In a heartening gesture, AFJ has pledged to match the donation. Caron Chung, AFJ’s Executive Director, expressed deep gratitude during Monday’s meeting, where she received the $2.75 million cheque. ‘It’s incredible to see this group take the initiative to support Hurricane Melissa relief. Their generosity is truly inspiring,’ she remarked. This initiative highlights how a shared passion can unite people to make a profound impact in times of crisis.

In response to the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa, the Jamaican Government has unveiled plans to provide safe and dignified temporary housing for displaced families. Information Minister Senator Dr. Dana Morris Dixon announced the initiative during a press briefing at the Office of the Prime Minister, emphasizing the urgency and humanity driving the effort. The Category 5 hurricane has left numerous families homeless, many of whom are currently housed in shelters that are far from ideal. Dr. Morris Dixon highlighted the need for facilities that respect the dignity of those affected, stating, ‘If we were in the same position, we would want a facility that honors our dignity.’

The Government is actively reviewing proposals for temporary housing units that can be swiftly deployed across the hardest-hit parishes. These units are being designed with durability and safety in mind, ensuring they can withstand future weather events. Dr. Morris Dixon noted that the solutions will not be one-size-fits-all but will cater to the diverse needs of affected families, including single individuals and large households. International support and best practices from other countries are being incorporated into the planning process.

A comprehensive damage assessment is currently underway to determine the scale of the crisis and the specific needs of those impacted. Dr. Morris Dixon assured that the Government is committed to delivering quality housing solutions, even if it means a longer timeline. ‘We don’t want to just have them feel like they’re a charity case,’ she said. ‘We’re about giving people decent houses.’ The goal is to provide semi-permanent structures that are structurally sound and capable of offering long-term shelter. While tents have been considered, the focus remains on more durable and dignified options.

Claston Bernard, a renowned Jamaican-American decathlete and Commonwealth champion, is spearheading a significant relief initiative in his hometown of Burnt Savannah, St Elizabeth, Jamaica. The community is recovering from the devastating impacts of Hurricane Melissa. Bernard, an alumnus of Louisiana State University and a former candidate for the office of consul general, has returned to his roots to lead the rebuilding efforts. Over the weekend, he joined forces with a group of US Navy veterans who have been actively involved in restoring the area. Their collaborative work, which includes providing essential support and reconstruction, is expected to continue through the end of November. Bernard’s dedication to his native community highlights the importance of local leadership in disaster recovery.

KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a significant move to bolster national development, the Desnoes & Geddes (D&G) Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Red Stripe, has donated $250,000 to the United Way of Jamaica (UWJ). This generous contribution is earmarked for a variety of community-driven projects aimed at enhancing education, empowering families, and fostering social resilience. These initiatives are particularly crucial as Jamaicans grapple with the lingering effects of Hurricane Melissa and escalating cost-of-living pressures.

During the official handover ceremony, D&G Foundation representatives emphasized their unwavering dedication to initiatives that improve quality of life and create opportunities for Jamaicans to flourish. The collaboration between the D&G Foundation and UWJ is built on a mutual vision of cultivating sustainable and empowered communities through joint efforts and compassion.

Kerry Lue Lynch, Acting CEO of the United Way of Jamaica, expressed profound gratitude for the donation, highlighting its potential to amplify the organization’s capacity to address community needs and broaden the scope of its social programs. ‘When entities like the D&G Foundation step up, it enables us to extend our reach and effect lasting change in the lives of those who need it most,’ Lynch remarked. ‘This partnership exemplifies the transformative outcomes achievable through collective action for the greater good.’

Dennis Beckford, Accountant at the D&G Foundation, underscored the foundation’s commitment to social impact. ‘The United Way of Jamaica remains a beacon of hope and support for numerous families and community groups across the island,’ he stated. ‘Our donation embodies the foundation’s conviction that genuine progress stems from investing in people and fostering collaborations between the private sector and organizations driving social change.’

This donation marks another milestone in the D&G Foundation’s ongoing efforts to contribute to Jamaica’s socio-economic development, reinforcing the importance of private sector involvement in addressing societal challenges.

KINGSTON, Jamaica — Winnie Harlow, the internationally acclaimed model and entrepreneur of Jamaican heritage, has taken decisive action to aid communities devastated by Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica. Partnering with DJ Diplo, the non-profit organization CORE, and the local grassroots group BREDS in Treasure Beach, Harlow spearheaded efforts to deliver critical supplies to those most affected by the storm.

Small business owners in St James, Jamaica, are urgently seeking government assistance to recover from the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa. The Category 5 storm caused widespread destruction, leaving many businesses in ruins and their owners grappling with significant losses. Among the hardest hit is Andre Hall, whose barbershop and cook shop in Tucker district were severely damaged. Hall recounted how the storm washed away essential equipment and destroyed the roof, leaving only fragments of his business behind. To make matters worse, the few materials he salvaged were later stolen. Hall emphasized the need for building materials like cement, plywood, and 2x4s to rebuild his livelihood. He also highlighted the role of improper waste disposal in exacerbating flooding and is now advocating for better waste management practices in the community. Similarly, O’Brien Sterling, owner of Where Dirty Meets Clean car wash in Catherine Hall, faced extensive damage as floodwaters swept through his compound, destroying equipment and ripping off the roof. Sterling expressed the financial strain of starting over and the urgency to take action despite the challenges. Nearby, Juici Jerk Restaurant co-owner Nick is struggling to clean up his mud-filled eatery and repair the damaged roof. The lack of electricity and running water has further complicated recovery efforts. Nick appealed for government support to help small businesses like his rebuild. Gavin Beckford of K&N Auto and Monica McIntosh of DoDo’s Ply Rental also shared their struggles, with floodwaters washing away valuable materials and slowing business operations. Despite the hardships, these resilient entrepreneurs are determined to rebuild and restore their businesses, underscoring the need for immediate assistance and community solidarity.