标签： Jamaica

In the wake of Hurricane Melissa, which devastated the western parishes of Jamaica, ADRA Jamaica, the humanitarian arm of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, has been at the forefront of relief efforts. The organization swiftly activated its National Emergency Management Plan, ensuring a coordinated response to the crisis. Prior to the hurricane’s landfall, ADRA Jamaica volunteers prepared and distributed 800 units of food supplies in St. Elizabeth and Westmoreland, anticipating the immediate needs of affected communities. Pastor Wenford Henry, Director of ADRA Jamaica, emphasized the proactive approach, stating, ‘We chose these parishes as our initial response based on the hurricane’s predicted path.’ Following the disaster, ADRA teams and volunteers conducted daily visits to severely impacted areas such as Black River, Middle Quarters, and Lacovia, providing hot meals and essential support. On November 4, ADRA International leaders, in collaboration with the Adventist Church’s youth department, conducted a volunteer training session at Victor Dixon High School in Mandeville under the ‘Yes with ADRA’ initiative. Over 100 volunteers participated in data collection and clean-up drives on November 5, with plans to distribute food and supplies based on assessed needs. Volunteer Anthia Adderley praised the training, noting its interactive and detailed approach. Pastor Henry reassured affected communities, ‘We will not leave you. ADRA Jamaica and our overseas partners are committed to rebuilding your lives better than before.’ Pastor Everett Brown, President of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Jamaica, commended ADRA’s efforts, highlighting the collaboration with government and faith-based organizations to alleviate hardships faced by hurricane victims.

In the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s devastation, the Office of the Custos Rotulorum for Manchester has initiated a heartfelt relief effort to aid affected residents in the communities of Alligator Pond and Waterloo. Spearheaded by Custos Garfield Green, the initiative focuses on delivering hot meals and comfort to families grappling with the aftermath of the storm. On Sunday, Green, accompanied by a dedicated team of volunteers, visited Alligator Pond, where freshly prepared meals were served on-site. The endeavor was bolstered by the generous contribution of Junior Lowe of Flamin Wok, who provided a mobile kitchen, and the active participation of several Justices of the Peace, who offered their time and resources. The Office of the Custos emphasized that this initiative exemplifies civic duty and compassion, stating, ‘This act of kindness reinforces the values of dignity and care in times of adversity.’ The outreach extended to Waterloo, where meals were distributed at the emergency shelter located at Waterloo Primary School and to nearby households. Plans are also underway to return with care packages for families in need. The initiative was marked by a profound sense of unity and volunteerism, as community members and Justices of the Peace collaborated to assist those most impacted. Custos Green described the warm reception from residents as ‘humbling,’ reflecting on the belief that ‘service is not just an act, but a calling.’ Guided by empathy, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to the community, the Office of the Custos of Manchester has pledged to continue supporting recovery efforts across the parish as residents work to rebuild their lives post-storm.

KINGSTON, Jamaica—In response to the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa, Guardsman Group has initiated a multifaceted relief campaign aimed at aiding affected communities across Jamaica. The company has begun installing Starlink satellite internet systems in its offices located in the hardest-hit parishes, offering free internet access to its staff, their families, and nearby residents. This initiative is designed to restore communication lines severed by the storm, enabling individuals to reconnect with loved ones and share vital updates.

Kenneth Benjamin, executive chairman of Guardsman Group, emphasized the humanitarian focus of these efforts. ‘Our priority is people,’ he stated. ‘This isn’t about operations; it’s about giving families hope. If we can help someone tell their loved ones they’re safe or find out if their loved ones are okay, that’s what matters.’

Hurricane Melissa, which ravaged southern and western Jamaica, left widespread destruction in its wake, isolating communities and crippling communication networks. In addition to the internet access initiative, Guardsman has launched a donation drive to provide essential supplies such as food, water, blankets, clothing, and baby items to affected families. Donations can be made at any Guardsman office across the island.

Furthermore, the company is organizing a company-wide blood drive among its employees to support hospitals and communities treating those injured or in need of emergency care. Benjamin highlighted the importance of unity in overcoming adversity, saying, ‘As a nation, we’ve faced hardship before and always found strength in unity. This is not just about Guardsman; it is about Jamaica. We are part of this country’s fabric, and when our people hurt, we hurt with them. Together, we will rebuild.’

KINGSTON, Jamaica — In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, Omni Industries Limited has intensified its production and distribution of critical construction materials, including zinc and PVC pipes, to aid Jamaica’s recovery efforts. Despite the hurricane’s widespread devastation, the company’s facilities at Twickenham Park, St Catherine, experienced only minor disruptions, allowing operations to continue without significant delays.

In the wake of Hurricane Melissa, a heartwarming story of human kindness and community spirit has emerged from St James, Jamaica. Michelle Yarboough, a Washington DC resident, found herself stranded and traumatized after the storm. Seeking help, she approached a stranger to charge her phone, only to receive an outpouring of support that far exceeded her expectations.

Lavern Jenkins, a local resident, took Yarboough under her wing, offering her shelter and comfort. Yarboough was deeply moved by the Jenkins family’s generosity, witnessing firsthand how they rallied to support their community. ‘She let me stay with her. I have seen her help every single person in this community. Hands down, she’s a rod and staff. I don’t know what I would have done without her,’ Yarboough shared, her voice trembling with gratitude.

The Jenkins family, equipped with solar power and Starlink internet, opened their home to anyone in need. They set up extension cords on their veranda, allowing neighbors to charge their devices, and even provided power to a nearby household whose solar panels were damaged. Their selflessness became a beacon of hope in the aftermath of the hurricane.

Yarboough’s experience was transformative. She recounted how Jenkins reassured her when she feared others might exploit the family’s kindness. ‘Not only was I safe, but I also learned again what it is just to be unconditional, what it is just to give of yourself,’ she reflected. As Jenkins prepared to take her to the airport, Yarboough vowed to return to Irwin Meadows, inspired by the warmth and resilience she encountered.

This story, captured by Charmaine N Clarke, highlights the enduring power of community and compassion in times of crisis.

Bernard St Aubyn Henry, executive chairman of Great Bay Joint Venture Company, has highlighted the proactive measures that safeguarded Treasure Bay Estates in St Elizabeth during Hurricane Melissa. The estate, designed with coastal risks in mind, features elevated lots, reinforced infrastructure, and advanced drainage systems to mitigate storm impacts. Henry emphasized that while no coastal property is entirely risk-free, Treasure Bay Estates combines resilience with lifestyle and investment potential, particularly on Jamaica’s less-developed south coast.

Treasure Bay Estates was conceived to address the demand for high-quality, sustainable coastal living on Jamaica’s south coast. With 130 residential lots averaging a quarter acre each, prices start at approximately US$90,000. If all lots sell at an average of US$100,000, the total land sales value would reach around US$13 million. The estate offers hurricane-resistant architectural plans, 24/7 security, and a range of amenities including a clubhouse, swimming pool, gym, tennis courts, and easy beach access.

Henry also reflected on the community’s resilience during the hurricane, noting how residents of Great Bay and surrounding areas came together to support one another. This spirit of unity reinforced the estate’s commitment to creating value not only in infrastructure but also in fostering a strong community ethos. Treasure Bay Estates stands as a testament to thoughtful planning and the enduring promise of coastal living.

In a rare display of unity, Jamaica’s Government and Opposition have joined forces to address the reopening of schools following the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa. Education Minister Dr. Dana Morris Dixon and Opposition Spokesperson Damion Crawford issued a joint statement emphasizing the importance of resuming education safely and swiftly, while prioritizing the well-being of students, educators, and staff. The hurricane, which struck Jamaica last week, has left significant challenges in its wake, including infrastructure damage and emotional trauma. Both leaders stressed the need for a phased, school-led reopening process, guided by thorough assessments of infrastructure, access, and overall readiness. They also highlighted the critical role of expanding psychosocial support to help those affected cope with the aftermath. Minister Morris Dixon underscored the importance of balancing safety with the right to education, stating, “Safety is non-negotiable, but so is our children’s right to learn.” Crawford echoed this sentiment, calling for unity and a focus on minimizing further learning loss. The Ministry of Education has pledged to continue providing counselling services and support to those in need, urging anyone experiencing distress to seek assistance through their school or regional office. Both leaders expressed gratitude to school boards, principals, teachers, and parents for their dedication during this challenging period.