Jamaicans impacted by Hurricane Beryl, especially in southwest and central areas of the country, will soon receive additional aid from Food For The Poor (FFTP) Jamaica, as the charity organisation strengthened its relief efforts with a J$20 million donation from Sagicor Group Jamaica.

Since the devastating impact of the category four hurricane on July 3, FFTP Jamaica with support from public and corporate entities, has been leading relief efforts for the thousands of residents who have seen damage and destruction done to their homes, businesses, crops, and livestock.

For his part, FFTP Jamaica chairman Andrew Mahfood is welcoming the support from Sagicor.

According to Mahfood, ”We have been through many hurricanes including Ivan, Gustav, Dean, Sandy and now Beryl and we have always been on the ground providing relief. Companies like Sagicor providing support confirm the trust in the work that Food For The Poor has been doing. We are grateful that communities like Portland Cottage, Alligator Pond, Rocky Point, Treasure Beach and other areas along the South Coast will be receiving additional help.”

Scope of committed funding

He says Sagicor Group’s donation will be going directly towards roofing, water, sanitization, food and agricultural supplies. For his part, Sagicor’s president and CEO, Christopher Zacca points to the importance of participating in the relief efforts saying, “Right after the hurricane hit, we realized the tremendous need for assistance to the citizens of Jamaica. The first organization that came to mind was Food For The Poor because they have such a strong history of bringing aid to those who need it the most.” 

Continuing, Zacca remarks, “We are pleased to know that those most affected will continue to receive aid. It is also heartwarming to see our team members out here today volunteering their time. When we sent out the call for volunteers to help pack the trucks, the slots were filled in minutes and that shows the strong culture of giving back that we have honed here at Sagicor.” 

FFTP Jamaica is among the first responders to the national crisis, spearheading the distribution of relief packages to communities island-wide. The humanitarian organisation has also, through its online platforms and various communication channels, connected countless people to health emergency hotlines and shelter locations for those displaced. 

Sagicor team member, Annmarie Ferguson, who was also affected by Hurricane Beryl spoke of the importance of her being a part of the volunteer efforts stating, “Hurricane Beryl took a part of my roof, so coming out here today to help pack supplies for those in need and being a part of a company that is helping in a big way is a great feeling. It is also good to know that Food For The Poor is leading the effort in mobilizing support for so many Jamaicans.” 

Persons and entities interested in supporting the organisation’s efforts by making contributions or volunteering can do so by visiting www.foodforthepoorja.org.