J Wray & Nephew Foundation (JWNF) has launched immediate relief efforts across several parishes by mobilising over 100 volunteers and distributing over 3,000 care packages (non-perishables) to affected families. Its parent company, Campari Group, also donated $250 million to the relief efforts through J Wray & Nephew Limited. 

Their relief approach emphasised close coordination with local communities around their production sites, Appleton Estate in St Elizabeth and New Yarmouth in Clarendon, while leveraging company employee volunteers.

According to JP Beyer, JWNF Chairman, the organisation has demonstrated how important it is for quick mobilisation, in providing both immediate relief and partner-based food package distribution. 

“In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, our hearts go out to everyone affected by this devastating storm. Many families and communities have faced unimaginable challenges, from damaged homes and disrupted livelihoods to the emotional toll of loss and uncertainty,” Beyer said. 

JWNF, he said, is committed to standing with those in need during this difficult time. Every contribution, he said, no matter the size, makes a meaningful difference, while every collective commitment ensures that no one faces this disaster alone.

“Our teams are working tirelessly to coordinate relief efforts, provide emergency assistance, and support long-term recovery for the most vulnerable members of our community. We are inspired by the resilience and courage of the people we serve. Together, with our partners, volunteers, and donors, we can help rebuild lives, restore hope, and strengthen the bonds that make our community resilient,” Beyer said. 

Garfene Grandison, General Manager of the JWNF, said the impact of Hurricane Melissa has been profound, and their thoughts are with everyone affected by this storm. In recognising the challenges many are facing, damage to homes, businesses, and daily routines, Grandison said safety and well-being were their top priorities.

“We are working closely with relief organisations and our own staff to provide immediate support where it is needed most. As we move forward, we are committed to not only restoring operations but also supporting the long-term recovery of our communities. Together, with compassion and teamwork, we can overcome this adversity and rebuild stronger than before,” Grandison said. 

“We ensured that the vulnerable persons in these communities, especially the elderly and persons with disabilities, were directly assisted. We recognised that many of these people were not receiving any assistance, and we went directly to their homes and distributed the packages,” he added. 

Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining, and Member of Parliament for St Elizabeth Southwestern, Floyd Green, has been leading government’s response to the damage wrought by Hurricane Melissa in that area. The agriculture and fisheries sector in Jamaica was hit hard. Over 41,000 hectares of farmland were affected, more than 70,000 farmers were impacted, and livestock losses of over 1.25 million animals occurred. 

With such extensive damage, the recovery process is substantial: a four-year, J$3 billion plan to roll out for the agriculture sector was announced by Minister Green. He has also been active in coordinating relief efforts in his constituency. Green said he was grateful to all first responders, volunteers, and relief organisations, including JWNF, that have been working tirelessly on the ground, bringing hope in a time of profound challenge.

“We are heartened by the outpouring of support. Based on the scale of devastation, all hands are needed on deck for any semblance of normalcy. As rebuilding begins, may we continue to support one another with generosity and resilience. No one is facing this alone, and together we will help restore and heal affected communities,” Green said.

Audie Myers, Councillor for the Siloah Division, said they are very appreciative of the interventions and work done by the JWN Foundation, not just since the passage of Hurricane Melissa, but for a number of years.

“The Foundation is very active in the community. We are pleased with their efforts since the passage of Hurricane Melissa; however, they are always here for us. From community initiatives, scholarships and helping people in the community, they are always on the ground, giving back and looking out for us,” Myers said. 

JWNF Volunteer Ashley Murphy said volunteering after Hurricane Melissa is not just about helping others; it is about rebuilding hope, strengthening community bonds, and making a lasting impact when it matters most.

“When I saw the offer to help, I saw it as a great pride to give back to these communities. It felt good giving back to the people who use our products, and it created in me a sense of pride that we could give back to them when they needed it the most,” Murphy said.