JTA allocates $35 million to assist hurricane-affected teachers

The Jamaica Teachers’ Association (JTA) has announced the allocation of an initial $35 million to support teachers severely impacted by Hurricane Melissa.

JTA says this initial sum was approved at a meeting of its Central Executive, which was convened on Friday, November 7.

The association says it has developed and approved a comprehensive national relief and recovery plan designed to address the immediate and long-term needs of teachers.

The plan, which was presented and endorsed by the Central Executive Committee, reflects the association’s unwavering commitment to the welfare and recovery of its members.

The JTA says that $3 million will be allocated for immediate relief supplies (food, toiletries, emergency kits), $2 million will be dedicated to logistical support, including transportation and distribution, and $30 million will go toward infrastructure recovery and rebuilding assistance.

“To ensure fairness, transparency, and data-driven decision-making, the infrastructure funds will be distributed across the JTA’s four regions using a 5:4:2:1 ratio, with the South Central and Western Regions receiving the highest allocations due to the severity of the damage,” the association explained.

“Assessments to guide this allocation will be conducted by Regional Executives, working closely with Parish and District Association presidents, to identify teachers in need and determine the scale of losses sustained,” it added.

JTA President Mark Malabver says this is not only a financial intervention, but is a statement of solidarity, compassion, and purpose.

“Our teachers have once again borne the brunt of a national disaster, yet they continue to show extraordinary resilience. It is our duty as their representatives to ensure that they are supported in rebuilding their lives and homes.”

The JTA says a National Disaster Relief Oversight Committee (NDROC) has been established to manage and monitor all aspects of the relief process.

The committee, chaired by Malabver, includes senior officers, trustees, and committee chairs responsible for finance, properties, membership, and professional advancement.

“NDROC will ensure that all disbursements and donations are handled with full transparency, equity, and accountability.”

Recognising that the emotional toll of Hurricane Melissa has been as devastating as the physical loss, the JTA will also implement a series of psychosocial initiatives.

It says these include the expansion of its counselling on demand programmes, the implementation of an online psychosocial support programme and the launch of crisis leadership and management training for teachers and school leaders, in collaboration with the association’s international partners such as American Federation of Teachers and Education International.

“Our members have weathered the trauma of the COVID-19 pandemic, flash floods, Hurricane Beryl, and now Melissa. They have held the fort through every crisis. But resilience must never be mistaken for invincibility. Empathy must be a cornerstone of our national recovery. Many do not understand the depth of what teachers are facing, but as the union closest to them, the JTA will stand resolutely in defending and protecting their interests. This is not just about welfare—it is about conditions of service.”

Meanwhile, the JTA says it has also activated its partnerships with Education International, the Caribbean Union of Teachers, and members of the Jamaican diaspora, who have already begun mobilising financial and material support.

The association says all contributions will be coordinated through the organisation to ensure proper documentation, accountability, and alignment with verified needs on the ground.

The JTA says its comprehensive response to Hurricane Melissa represents both compassion and strategic action.

“To our members, Help is on the way. Together, we will rebuild—not just structures, but spirits. Our teachers are the heartbeat of the nation, and their restoration is central to Jamaica’s renewal,” Malabver said.

Follow The Gleaner on X, formerly Twitter, and Instagram @JamaicaGleaner and on Facebook @GleanerJamaica. Send us a message on WhatsApp at 1-876-499-0169 or email us at onlinefeedback@gleanerjm.com or editors@gleanerjm.com.