Jamaica Liaison Service mobilises Canadian support for Hurricane Melissa relief
/ Our Today
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Relief efforts across Canada are rapidly intensifying to support Jamaica’s recovery from Hurricane Melissa, with a strong emphasis on assisting seasonal farm workers whose families and communities suffered widespread destruction.
“The people of Jamaica are strong, yet this moment demands all hands. The collective support from employers and citizens in Canada strengthens our national recovery and brings hope to families facing hardship,” said Labour Minister Pearnel Charles Jr.
The Jamaican Liaison Service (JLS) has confirmed that employers, diaspora groups, and civic organisations throughout southern Ontario and Atlantic Canada have activated major collection drives that combine general household relief with targeted financial aid for affected workers.
Since the hurricane’s impact, the Jamaican farm worker community has been one of the most heavily affected segments of the population. Many workers in Canada are now grappling with uncertainty about the well-being of their families back home, while urgently trying to help rebuild damaged homes and farms.
Employer-led action: Direct help to Jamaican workers
In the Medford Clarksburg apple belt of Ontario, employers have co-launched a GoFundMe campaign dedicated to supporting the 620 Jamaican farm workers deployed to the region this year. Funds raised are intended to go directly toward rebuilding homes, replacing necessities, and stabilising family livelihoods.
“Our workers are worried about home. They may be here in Canada, but their hearts are in Jamaica. This relief effort is our way of standing with them and ensuring their families feel supported as they rebuild,” said Althea Riley, chief liaison officer, Jamaican Liaison Service (Toronto).
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