Diaspora group delivers relief to Manning’s School
Published:Thursday | December 4, 2025 | 12:09 AMAlbert Ferguson/Gleaner Writer
WESTERN BUREAU
When Hurricane Melissa tore through western Jamaica, destroying homes, schools and livelihoods, the Manning’s School Past Students’ Association, New York Chapter (MPSA NY), moved quickly to support students and teachers with emergency relief packages.
Kaleeb Plummer, president of MPSA NY, said the devastation demanded immediate action.
“In a crisis like this, our alma mater must never stand alone,” Plummer told The Gleaner. “We were raised by Manning’s, shaped by Manning’s, and this was our moment to give back in a real and meaningful way. Words are easy, but it’s our actions that show who we truly are.”
Within hours of learning of the storm’s impact, members across New York mobilised through digital platforms, neighbourhood networks and workplaces. The effort produced about 100 relief packages filled with food, hygiene products and other essentials for affected families.
Plummer said the intervention reflects the association’s long-standing mandate to provide financial and material assistance to the school.
“This is not a one-off response. Our school community has suffered significant losses, and we intend to stand with them through every stage of recovery,” she said.
For diaspora members, the initiative represents more than charity. They see it as a living expression of the school’s anthem, which calls on past students to remember Manning’s wherever life takes them.
Additional support efforts are being planned as Manning’s School and the wider Westmoreland community begin recovery from the Category 5 storm.