Chinese community in Jamaica joins relief effort

Members of Jamaica’s Chinese community have stepped forward to assist residents affected by Hurricane Melissa, organizing relief efforts to help those in some of the hardest-hit areas of St Elizabeth.

Videos shared on Instagram by Neil Yap Sam show volunteers gathered at the Chinese Benevolent Association (CBA)headquarters in Kingston, assembling care packages destined for communities struggling in the wake of the storm. Tables lined with essential goods — including rice, canned food, bottled water, and hygiene supplies — formed part of a large-scale packing operation coordinated by the group.

According to organizers, the initiative is part of a broader humanitarian response to provide immediate assistance to households that lost access to basic necessities following severe flooding and infrastructural damage caused by Hurricane Melissa.

“This is about standing together as Jamaicans and helping our brothers and sisters who are going through a difficult time,” said one volunteer during the drive. “Every little bit of help counts right now.”

The CBA, one of Jamaica’s oldest community organizations, has a longstanding history of supporting national disaster-relief efforts. During previous storms and crises, the association has mobilized donations, coordinated volunteer drives, and partnered with local authorities to distribute aid where it is needed most.

Relief supplies from this latest initiative are expected to be delivered to affected areas in St Elizabeth, where many families have been displaced or are facing food and water shortages. Volunteers say they are working closely with local organizations to ensure aid reaches the most vulnerable residents, including the elderly and families with young children.

Hurricane Melissa, which swept across parts of Jamaica last week, brought heavy rainfall, flooding, and power outages, leaving behind widespread damage to homes, crops, and roads, particularly in southern parishes.

The Jamaican government and several charitable groups have since launched recovery efforts to restore normalcy and assist affected communities.

Organizers from the Chinese Benevolent Association emphasized that their relief drive is ongoing and encouraged members of the public to contribute by donating supplies or volunteering time to help with distribution.

“We are proud to be part of Jamaica’s national family and to do our part in times like this,” a CBA spokesperson said. “Our hope is that these small acts of kindness can bring some relief and hope to those rebuilding their lives.”

As cleanup operations continue, community-based initiatives like this one highlight the spirit of unity and compassion that often emerges in the face of disaster — a testament to the resilience and solidarity of the Jamaican people and their partners.