Supporting Jamaica’s Comeback from Hurricane Melissa
There’s a special kind of strength that lives in Jamaica. It’s the same strength that makes us dance through struggles, cook a meal for a neighbor after the storm, and still say “we’re alright” when the skies are grey.
In late October, Hurricane Melissa put that strength to the test. She was fierce — the most powerful storm ever recorded to make landfall in Jamaica. Winds roared past 180 miles per hour, tearing through homes, roads, and power lines. Entire towns in Westmoreland and St. Elizabeth were left almost unrecognizable. At one point, nearly the entire island was without power.
It’s hard to describe the heartbreak of seeing so many beloved places damaged — beaches we’ve driven guests to, communities we’ve shared stories with, and smiling faces that always make Jamaica feel like home.
The Reality We’re Facing
Prime Minister Andrew Holness shared that the damage could cost Jamaica up to US $7 billion, nearly a third of our country’s yearly economy. That number is staggering — but behind it are real people: families who lost everything, farmers whose crops were destroyed, hotels and small businesses now struggling to rebuild.
The death toll has risen to over 30 lives lost, and thousands more are displaced. In some parishes, 90% of homes were damaged or lost their roofs. Yet even in the hardest-hit areas, people are already cleaning, rebuilding, and sharing what little they have. That’s Jamaica.
Help and Hope Are Already on the Way
Support has been pouring in from across the world — and it reminds us that we’re not alone.
- The Red Cross has launched an international appeal for more than US $23 million to help families recover.
- The National Commercial Bank (NCB) and its partners have raised J$450 million through their Building a Better Jamaica fund.
- Global charities like GiveDirectly and the JN Foundation are sending direct cash transfers and supplies to the hardest-hit communities.
And here at home, everyday Jamaicans are doing what we do best, showing up for each other! From neighborhood kitchens cooking for displaced families to volunteer groups clearing roads by hand, the island’s spirit of unity is alive and strong.
How You Can Help
If you’re reading this and wondering how to make a difference, here are a few trusted ways to support the recovery effort:
- Government Disaster Fund: supportjamaica.gov.jm
Every bit helps — from the big donations to the small acts of sharing information and encouraging others to give.
Our commitment
At Jamaica Luxury Vans, our team and drivers have spent years taking visitors into the heart of Jamaica — from the hills of Mandeville to the beaches of Negril. We’ve seen firsthand the beauty of this island and the resilience of its people.
That’s why we’re committed to supporting rebuilding efforts in the communities where we operate. We’ll be partnering with local organizations to help restore schools, rebuild roads, and provide transport to relief teams where it’s needed most.
Call Us (855)-519-3113 to help Jamaica Luxury Vans give back to Jamaica.
