Citi Foundation is committing US$250,000 (approximately 40 million Jamaican dollars) to UNICEF USA to provide immediate humanitarian aid to communities in Jamaica affected by Hurricane Melissa, the strongest storm of the 2025 Atlantic season. 

This crucial contribution is designed to deliver essential aid and restore essential services, including safe water, hygiene supplies, and nutrition support, to children and families as they recover from the devastation.

“Our hearts go out to the communities in Jamaica that have been devastated by Hurricane Melissa. We are committed to supporting emergency relief efforts and are proud to support UNICEF USA, whose vital work will bring critical assistance to children and families in their time of greatest need,” said Eva Lewis, CCO of Citi Jamaica. “This donation underscores our commitment to act swiftly in times of crisis.”

Hurricane Melissa, a Category 5 storm, left widespread destruction in its wake, flooding entire communities, damaging critical infrastructure, and disrupting access to essential services for hundreds of thousands of people in Jamaica.

UNICEF estimates that 864,000 people, including 280,000 children, have been affected. The organisation is working closely with the Government of Jamaica and its partners to restore access to safe water and sanitation, re-establish primary healthcare and education services, and provide cash and in-kind assistance to help stabilise families’ immediate needs.

UNICEF’s emergency teams are actively deploying water and hygiene supplies, supporting the rehabilitation of community water points, and providing vital nutrition and maternal health resources to reach children and families in the hardest-hit areas. Additionally, education recovery efforts are underway to help children safely return to learning through the distribution of early childhood development kits, school supplies, and psychosocial support for teachers and students.

With 65 years of presence in Jamaica, Citi has been deeply rooted in the fabric of the country—committed to supporting its growth, prosperity and continued development.