SAJ general manager calls for continued support after visiting hurricane-affected Westmoreland

Communities in Westmoreland that continue to recover from the impact of Hurricane Melissa received much-needed support on Saturday when the general manager of the Shipping Association of Jamaica (SAJ), Terrence Brooks, led a team into the parish to distribute relief packages to residents still rebuilding their lives.

The outreach formed part of the Association’s ongoing efforts to assist families affected by the hurricane and to mobilise support from within Jamaica’s maritime and logistics community.

During the visit, the SAJ team distributed care packages across several communities including Watercress, Baggie Valley, Goldsmith, and Abekuta. The relief supplies were made possible through a donation from ZIM Carib Star Limited, whose contribution helped ensure that residents received essential items as recovery efforts continue.

While in the parish, Brooks also met with Westmoreland resident Jonathan Headley, who endured a traumatic experience during Hurricane Melissa. Headley lost his home during the storm and witnessed a fatal incident when zinc sheets became airborne in the high winds. In the aftermath, he was forced to live in his car for a period while trying to rebuild.

Following the disaster, Brooks reached out to Headley and has since remained in contact, offering support and encouragement as he works to recover. Headley worked closely with the SAJ team in their distribution drive on Saturday.

SUSTAINED SUPPORT

Brooks is reminding Jamaicans that although the hurricane has passed, many families are still grappling with its aftermath.

“Hurricane recovery does not end when the storm passes,” Brooks said. “There are still many families in these communities who need assistance as they rebuild their homes and their lives. The Shipping Association of Jamaica will continue supporting relief efforts by working with individuals and community leaders on the ground to ensure help reaches those who need it most.”

Brooks also encouraged companies within the maritime and logistics sector to continue contributing to recovery initiatives.

“We are calling on members of the shipping and logistics community, and Jamaica more broadly, to continue supporting these communities. The rebuilding process is ongoing, and sustained support will make a real difference to the families affected,” he added.

Anyone wishing to support ongoing relief initiatives may coordinate donations through the Shipping Association of Jamaica by contacting Senior Manager for Business Development and Marketing, Akeela Marin, at akeelam@jamports.com or (876) 923-3491-2.

The Association noted that partnerships with industry stakeholders will remain a key part of ensuring that assistance continues to reach vulnerable communities as recovery efforts progress.