In response to the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa, an emergency field hospital has been set up at Black River High School in St Elizabeth, Jamaica. This initiative, spearheaded by the evangelical Christian humanitarian organization Samaritan’s Purse International Relief, aims to bolster the local healthcare infrastructure during this critical time. The facility, staffed by over 60 professionals including members of the Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART), is designed to replicate the capabilities of the severely damaged Black River Hospital. Dr Kelly Sites, the Medical Director of the emergency field hospital, emphasized the self-sustaining nature of the unit, which is equipped with its own power generators and can handle a wide range of medical needs, from chronic conditions to emergency surgeries. The hospital features a triage department, emergency rooms, an intensive care unit, an operating room, an obstetrics facility, patient wards, a full laboratory, and a pharmacy. Additionally, family-practice physicians are available to manage chronic diseases such as hypertension, sickle cell anemia, and diabetes. The field hospital is also collaborating with local facilities and utilizing ground and air ambulance services to transport patients to Kingston when necessary. Beyond medical services, the Samaritan’s Purse team is providing non-food items, shelter, tarps, water, and sanitation assistance across the island. Dr Sites mentioned that the team plans to remain in Jamaica for at least a month, or longer if needed, to ensure continued support for the local community.
标签： Jamaica
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NCU to resume classes on November 10 after Hurricane Melissa
MANCHESTER, Jamaica — Northern Caribbean University (NCU) has announced that classes will recommence on Monday, November 10, in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa. The university, in a statement released on Tuesday, acknowledged the profound challenges faced by students grappling with the devastation wrought by the hurricane. To address these difficulties, NCU has implemented a series of supportive measures tailored to assist students who may be unable to return to campus due to disrupted access to essential services such as transportation and internet connectivity. Students encountering such obstacles are encouraged to promptly contact their respective faculty chairs, deans, or regional campus coordinators to explore alternative learning arrangements, including adaptable assessment options for the current semester. For those unable to engage with the university within this academic period, NCU has pledged to facilitate their reintegration in January 2026, ensuring they receive the necessary support to navigate their recovery journey. Additionally, course materials and content will be made available on the Moodle platform, allowing students to progress at their own pace. The university has also committed to flexibility in assignment submissions and other academic activities, underscoring its dedication to student welfare during this challenging time.
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PNP’s Dwayne Vaz accuses former MP George Wright of hijacking hurricane relief supplies
In a heated session of the House of Representatives, Dwayne Vaz, the People’s National Party (PNP) Member of Parliament for Westmoreland Central, accused his predecessor, George Wright of the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP), of hijacking a shipment of hurricane relief supplies intended for the constituency. The supplies were dispatched in response to the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa, which struck Jamaica as a Category 5 storm on October 28. Vaz described the incident as a blatant case of ‘political victimisation,’ alleging that Wright and his team diverted the aid from its intended recipients. The controversy unfolded on Tuesday, following Prime Minister Andrew Holness’s two-hour address detailing the preliminary damage estimates from the hurricane. Vaz claimed that despite assurances from the government to avoid politicized relief distribution, chaos ensued when Wright allegedly commandeered the supplies. Vaz recounted that Wright’s team arrived with trucks and loaded the relief materials, leaving the intended beneficiaries empty-handed. He emphasized the need for improved coordination and security during future relief operations, suggesting that the current MP should oversee distribution to ensure fairness. Vaz expressed concern over the public’s perception of the incident, noting that it left a ‘bitter taste’ among citizens who questioned the integrity of the relief process. He called for transparency and accountability to prevent such occurrences in the future.
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Customs urges donors to coordinate relief shipments through registered charities
In the wake of Hurricane Melissa, the Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA) has issued a call to action for individuals planning to donate substantial quantities of relief supplies. The agency emphasizes the importance of collaborating with registered local charities to ensure a streamlined and effective distribution process. Chief Information Officer André Williams clarified that while individuals are allowed to import a ‘reasonable quantity’ of approved relief items, larger shipments, such as 100 pairs of shoes, will be categorized as commercial quantities and require proper coordination with charitable organizations. Williams highlighted that these donations are intended for direct distribution to those in need, not for resale. He pointed out that registered charities, such as Food For the Poor, are exempt from import duties and General Consumption Tax (GCT), making them ideal partners for large-scale donations. The government has extended the duty- and tax-free period for relief supplies until December 31, ensuring that all shipments arriving before this date will benefit from the exemptions. Williams also advised donors of school supplies to work with the National Education Trust (NET), a government agency dedicated to improving Jamaica’s education sector. For healthcare-related donations, he recommended coordinating with the National Healthcare Enhancement Foundation. Williams reassured donors that despite potential logistical challenges during the busy holiday season, all eligible shipments will qualify for the tax relief if they arrive by the extended deadline.
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Prince Harry says proud to be British despite new life in US
LONDON, United Kingdom—Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex, has issued a heartfelt plea for the public to remember and honor military veterans, emphasizing the enduring sacrifices they have made. Speaking ahead of Britain’s annual Remembrance Day commemorations, the 41-year-old royal, who served two tours in Afghanistan, expressed his unwavering pride in his British heritage despite now residing in California.
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UK government deploys Royal Navy to support disaster relief efforts in Jamaica
In a significant move to bolster disaster relief efforts in Jamaica, the British Offshore Patrol Vessel, HMS Trent, arrived in Falmouth, Trelawny, on November 4, equipped with specialized personnel and resources to assist communities devastated by Hurricane Melissa. The vessel, manned by a 75-member crew including expert engineers, is set to play a pivotal role in infrastructure assessments and emergency repairs, working in close collaboration with Jamaican authorities.
UK Defence Secretary John Healey emphasized the critical role of the British Armed Forces in disaster relief missions, stating, ‘Our Royal Navy and British Army personnel bring invaluable engineering expertise to support local recovery efforts. This deployment reflects Britain’s commitment to standing with those in need during times of crisis.’
Chris Elmore, Minister for the Caribbean, highlighted the UK government’s relentless efforts to deliver relief supplies to the hardest-hit areas. ‘The arrival of HMS Trent marks a crucial step in restoring vital infrastructure and supporting communities most affected by the hurricane,’ he said.
The deployment is part of a broader UK support package for Jamaica, which includes over 3,000 shelter kits, 1,500 solar-powered lanterns, and a Rapid Deployment Team from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) to provide consular assistance to affected British nationals. Additionally, the UK has pledged £7.5 million in emergency funding to address immediate humanitarian needs in the region.
British High Commissioner to Jamaica, Alicia Herbert, reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to Jamaica’s recovery. ‘The arrival of HMS Trent symbolizes our enduring partnership and dedication to helping Jamaica rebuild stronger and more resilient communities in the wake of Hurricane Melissa,’ she stated. The funding is facilitating the delivery of essential relief items and the deployment of UK humanitarian and technical experts to coordinate aid efforts effectively.
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FHC Credit Union announces 3-month loan moratorium for members affected by hurricane
KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a significant move to support its members affected by Hurricane Melissa, First Heritage Co-operative Credit Union Limited (FHC) has introduced a three-month moratorium on loan payments. This initiative underscores the credit union’s dedication to its foundational principle of ‘People Helping People.’
Xavier Allen, CEO of FHC, emphasized the organization’s commitment to its members during challenging times. ‘Our members are our priority. This moratorium offers much-needed relief, enabling them to focus on rebuilding their lives and livelihoods,’ he stated.
Eligible members can defer their loan payments for up to three months by contacting their branch representative, completing a moratorium request form, and providing a brief description of the hurricane’s impact, along with any supporting documentation.
In addition to the moratorium, FHC, in collaboration with its subsidiary, FHC Investments, has launched a donation drive. The initiative encourages staff, members, and the public to contribute non-perishable food items and essential supplies to aid national relief efforts. Drop boxes have been strategically placed across FHC branches to facilitate donations.
FHC is also contributing to the Credit Unions of Jamaica’s relief efforts, providing both financial and material support. On November 8 and 9, FHC team members will deliver care packages to severely affected communities in St Elizabeth, Westmoreland, Trelawny, Hanover, and St James.
Michelle Tracey, Assistant General Manager of Marketing Communications and Member Experience, highlighted the initiative’s alignment with the credit union’s ethos. ‘This effort embodies our core belief in community support and reaffirms our role as a reliable financial partner in all circumstances,’ she said.
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French priest accused of sexually abusing minor refugees in Morocco
RABAT, Morocco – The Catholic Archbishop of Rabat, Cristobal Lopez Romero, has affirmed his full cooperation with both Moroccan and international authorities following allegations of sexual abuse involving a French priest in Casablanca. The accusations, first reported by Moroccan news outlet Enass, claim that Father Antoine Exelmans orchestrated a “system of sexual exploitation” targeting underage migrants and refugees over a span of at least four years.
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Shaggy to perform at 99th anniversary of Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
Renowned multi-award-winning artist Shaggy has announced his participation in this year’s Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, fulfilling a long-held dream. The Jamaican superstar revealed the news on his official social media platforms on Monday, expressing his excitement and pride in representing his homeland during challenging times. The parade, a cherished American tradition since 1924, will celebrate its 99th anniversary on November 27. Shaggy, the sole Jamaican act in the lineup, will perform on the Jennie-O Big Turkey Spectacular float alongside other notable artists such as Ciara, Foreigner, and Busta Rhymes. In his announcement, Shaggy emphasized the significance of showcasing Jamaican culture through dancehall and reggae music, while also acknowledging the struggles faced by his country in the aftermath of a recent hurricane. Kim Anderson, senior brand manager of the JENNIE-O® brand, highlighted the collaboration with Shaggy as a special addition to this year’s festivities, promising an innovative and vibrant performance. The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, a globally recognized event, continues to symbolize the official commencement of the holiday season in the United States.
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NHF deploys mobile pharmacies in western Jamaica as part of recovery efforts
In response to the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa, Jamaica’s National Health Fund (NHF) has introduced mobile pharmacy services to assist residents in three severely impacted parishes in the western region. The initiative, which began operations in Black River, Cambridge, and Negril, aims to ensure uninterrupted access to essential medications. Additionally, the NHF’s Drug Serv team is providing pharmaceutical services from the Albert Town Health Centre Pharmacy in Trelawny. While all main pharmacy locations remain operational, the agency cautioned that limited electricity and internet connectivity have resulted in extended wait times at certain sites. Operational pharmacies across multiple parishes, including St James, Westmoreland, Hanover, St Elizabeth, St Ann, St Mary, Clarendon, and Manchester, are listed as open. In Kingston and St Andrew, all Drug Serv pharmacies are functioning except for the Gordon Town Health Centre. The NHF praised healthcare workers for their unwavering commitment and confirmed that mobile services will persist in the most affected areas for the foreseeable future.