The American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ), in partnership with Hardware & Lumber Limited (H&L) and the Hardware & Lumber Foundation, launched a J$80 million Small Farmers Program to support farmers severely impacted by Hurricane Melissa, which struck Jamaica on October 28, 2025.

Hurricane Melissa caused an estimated J$30 billion in agricultural losses, affecting approximately 70,000 farmers, with small farmers in Westmoreland, St. Elizabeth, Hanover, St. James, and Trelawny among the hardest hit. The new initiative aims to help farmers recover quickly by restoring access to critical agricultural inputs.

Under the program, AFJ has committed US$500,000 (approximately J$80 million) to fund the distribution of 1,600 co-branded AFJ/H&L gift cards, each valued at approximately J$50,000, enabling small farmers to purchase seeds, fertilisers, chemicals, tools, and other essential supplies from Hardware & Lumber through its retail network, H&L Agro and H&L Rapid True Value.

AFJ and H&L will work closely with the Ministry of Agriculture, the Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA) and the Jamaica Agricultural Society to identify eligible farmers across the affected parishes. Gift cards will be jointly distributed by AFJ, H&L, and the H&L Foundation in February 2026, with AFJ spearheading distribution efforts.

“As small farmers work to rebuild after Hurricane Melissa, timely access to inputs is critical,” said AFJ President Wendy Hart. “This partnership allows us to deliver practical, accountable support that puts choice and dignity directly in the hands of farmers.”

Hardware & Lumber will provide discounted pricing and best-available rates on targeted agricultural products and will supply regular reporting to ensure transparency and accountability. The H&L Foundation’s GCT-exempt status will further maximise the value of funds deployed.

The partners will also collaborate to reduce logistical barriers, including exploring pop-up distribution points and transportation solutions to ensure farmers can access supplies efficiently. Any unused balances after the program’s May 31, 2026, expiration date will be redirected toward additional Hurricane Melissa recovery initiatives.

This partnership underscores a shared commitment by AFJ, Hardware & Lumber, and the H&L Foundation to support Jamaica’s small farmers and strengthen rural resilience in the wake of natural disasters.

“At H&L, we believe collaboration is the engine for success in recovery. We’re proud to partner with American Friends of Jamaica, whose commitment to sustainable development and community empowerment inspires us to keep delivering the best solutions for the farmers and communities we serve,” said Chairman, H&L Foundation, Olive Downer Walsh. “Together, we’re confident this initiative will strengthen our farmers’ work in building Jamaica’s food security. When we work side by side, everyone wins.”