标签： Jamaica

The aftermath of Hurricane Melissa has left Jamaica grappling with the challenge of reopening schools, sparking a heated debate between the Jamaica Teachers’ Association (JTA) and the Ministry of Education. JTA President Mark Malabver expressed deep concerns over the ministry’s directive for schools in less-affected parishes to resume operations on November 3. Malabver argued that such decisions should be made at the institutional level, involving principals, teachers, and stakeholders, rather than adopting a blanket approach. He emphasized the need to consider the personal circumstances of educators, many of whom have suffered significant losses, including homes and family members, and are struggling with mental health issues.

KINGSTON, Jamaica – Authorities in Portmore, St Catherine, are urgently investigating the suspected abduction of 17-year-old Elese Myles, who went missing from her community on Saturday. Elese, a resident of Winona Drive, Bridgeport, reportedly sent a distress message to her mother and a neighbor around 9:00 am, claiming she had been taken against her will. She was last seen wearing a white blouse and pink pants and has not been in contact since. The police have classified the case as high-priority, expressing concerns for her safety. Investigators are diligently following all available leads and are urging anyone with information about her whereabouts to come forward immediately. The public is encouraged to contact the Portmore Police at (876) 989-8422, the 119 Police Emergency number, or their nearest police station with any relevant details.

A devastating fire erupted on Stephenson Street, near Heroes Circle in Kingston, Jamaica, on Sunday, leaving approximately 53 individuals, including several children, without homes. The blaze, which reduced the area to ashes and twisted sheets of zinc, destroyed an estimated 15 families’ residences, leaving them with nothing. Authorities have yet to determine the cause of the fire, which has left the community in shock and despair. As the affected families grapple with the loss of their homes and belongings, local organizations and residents are rallying to provide support and assistance during this challenging time.

KINGSTON, Jamaica – In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, which has left a trail of destruction across western Jamaica, the JN Group has intensified its humanitarian efforts to aid recovery. The organization has revived the ISupportJamaica Fund to facilitate donations from overseas Jamaicans, targeting relief and reconstruction in severely impacted areas such as early childhood institutions, healthcare facilities, and homes for the elderly. Claudine Allen, General Manager of the JN Foundation, expressed gratitude for the global response, highlighting contributions from Jamaicans in the UK, including essential supplies destined for Food for the Poor. Donations can be made through JN locations in the UK, remittances via JN Money Services, or direct bank transfers to JN Bank account 2094768349. Further details are available on the JN Foundation website. Beyond financial aid, the JN Group is mobilizing employee volunteers in collaboration with St John’s Ambulance and the Jamaica Automobile Association to provide medical care and debris clearance. The first volunteer team will assist communities in St Elizabeth on November 2, with plans for continued support. Allen emphasized the urgent need for medical assistance, as local hospitals are overwhelmed and debris hampers movement. She also stressed the importance of sustainable aid, leveraging the JN Circle network, which has distributed $20 million in aid over the past two years. Allen urged Jamaicans to volunteer through organizations like the Council for Voluntary Social Services, calling for unity in recovery efforts. ‘We will only recover and rebuild if we do it together,’ she concluded.