CIBC Caribbean has increased its support for the Jamaica Library Service (JLS) by delivering timely financial relief to employees affected by Hurricane Melissa in the form of prepaid MasterCards.

By loading funds directly onto CIBC Caribbean prepaid cards, the bank has provided JLS staff with fast, secure, and flexible access to relief funds to address roofing repairs, flood-related damage, and the replacement of essential household items.

Through this initiative, CIBC Caribbean’s assistance will mitigate challenges with accessing cash and traditional banking services. As such, the beneficiaries can make purchases conveniently to accelerate their recovery.

JLS director-general Maureen Thompson welcomed the support and praised the long-standing partnership with CIBC Caribbean.

“The Jamaica Library Service is deeply appreciative of our continued collaboration with CIBC Caribbean. This tangible support came at a critical time for our staff, many of whom were navigating the challenges of flooding and property damage. The ability to access and use these funds immediately made a meaningful difference, especially during a period when cash was not easily available.”

 CIBC Caribbean’s head of country, Annique Dawkins, highlighted the bank’s people-centred approach and the empathy that guided the initiative. 

“At CIBC Caribbean, we place strong emphasis on the care of people. With members of our own team also affected by Hurricane Melissa, we understood first-hand the urgency and the realities on the ground. That shared experience informed how we responded, allowing us to support the Jamaica Library Service staff in a way that was practical, timely, and impactful,” she said.

One beneficiary, Chantalle Davey, a JLS employee from St Thomas, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the assistance received. 

“I am truly grateful for this support. After the flooding, several household items were damaged, and part of my roof needed urgent repairs. The prepaid card allowed me to replace essential items and begin fixing my home right away, without the added stress of trying to access cash during that difficult period,” she added.

Highlighting the broader value of the prepaid card solution, Dowen Allen, associate director, cards and payments at CIBC Caribbean, noted its effectiveness for both emergency relief and everyday business needs. 

“This initiative clearly demonstrated the efficiency of prepaid cards as a financial solution. They provide a cashless, convenient way for organisations to support staff in real time—whether in response to emergencies, for incentives, or for salary top-ups. Importantly, they reduce downtime by removing the need for individuals to physically visit a bank, helping organisations maintain productivity while meeting the needs of their people.”