Special registration opens for charities aiding recovery

The Department of Co-operatives and Friendly Societies (DCFS) has launched a special registration window for charitable organisations to support national relief and recovery efforts after Hurricane Melissa.

Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Senator Aubyn Hill, said the initiative reflects the government’s wider commitment to restoring communities and businesses across the island.

“We recognise that our people and our businesses are resilient, but recovery requires coordination, swift action and support,” Hill said. “By enabling charitable organisations to provide urgent assistance, we strengthen the national relief and recovery effort and support overall economic recovery.”

The temporary registration period runs until May 31, 2026, and will be processed within 10 working days, with administrative requirements waived and no registration fee. All specially registered organisations will automatically wind up at the end of the six-month period, and accounts with the DCFS and the Tax Administration of Jamaica must be closed.

Unincorporated groups seeking registration must commit to charitable purposes, including relief for those affected by emergencies, poverty reduction, community development and environmental protection.

The DCFS and the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce are encouraging all eligible groups to take advantage of the registration window and join the national effort to support Jamaica’s recovery.