Operation Blessing and several partner organisations have launched a major rebuilding initiative in Jamaica to help families whose homes were destroyed by Hurricane Melissa.

The Virginia Beach-based humanitarian group plans to build at least 50 homes with a goal of reaching 100, for storm survivors in some of the hardest-hit areas of the island. Rebuilding efforts are currently focused on the parishes of Hanover and St James.

Operation Blessing is partnering with World Vision, Mercury One, The Jack Brewer Foundation, Youth With a Mission, Why Not International, and the United Cajun Navy to provide safe, durable housing for displaced families. Since the initiative launched, eight homes have already been completed, including one modular test unit and seven traditionally built, wood-framed homes. 

Each 14-by-26-foot home includes two bedrooms, a kitchen and living area, and a metal roof. Homes can be constructed in about two days with volunteer labour. At least 50 homes are currently planned, with the potential to double that number depending on available funding and volunteer support. The rebuilding effort is expected to continue through March.

Operation Blessing is seeking volunteers to assist with construction and donors willing to sponsor the cost of a home. Volunteers must provide their own lodging, while meals will be provided by the organisation. Operation Blessing’s Global Disaster Response Team has been on the ground in Jamaica since shortly after Hurricane Melissa made landfall. 

The organisation says it has distributed more than 120,000 gallons of clean water, served more than 177,000 meals, provided medical care to more than 1,700 people, and installed multiple clean-water systems across the island. With thousands of residents still living in shelters, the organisation says the focus has now shifted from emergency response to long-term recovery.

President of Operation Blessing, Drew Friedrich, is pleased with the work done thus far, declaring, “Emergency relief saves lives, but rebuilding restores hope. These homes represent dignity, safety, and a path forward for families who have endured unimaginable loss.”