One month after Hurricane Melissa devastated communities across the island, Food For The Poor US$5m Jamaica support is now underway. The charity has announced a major housing rebuild and repair initiative designed to help families return to safe, permanent homes as quickly as possible.
A Shift From Relief to Long-Term Recovery
Andrew Mahfood, chairman of Food For The Poor’s board, says the organisation is now moving beyond emergency aid and focusing on long-term stability for families who lost their homes or suffered severe damage.
“We are moving quickly,” Mahfood said. “This US$5 million commitment gives us the ability to order materials, stage supplies and get repair teams into communities without delay. Families deserve strong, safe homes they can return to.”
One of Jamaica’s Fastest Disaster Responses
Since Hurricane Melissa made landfall on October 28, FFTP has launched one of its fastest national responses in history. Working in partnership with the Government of Jamaica, churches, and local and international partners, the organisation has already delivered more than 116 emergency shipments by air and sea.
The support includes over four million pounds of food, water, hygiene products, medical supplies, tarps, generators, bedding and other essential goods. More than 24,000 families have received emergency assistance.
FFTP also mobilised 1,600 volunteers and increased its warehouse output to 3,500 food kits per day to meet nationwide demand.
Repairs Begin in Hard-Hit Communities
Hundreds of roof-repair kits are already funded, with deployment starting first in heavily impacted western parishes. More kits will be delivered as field teams complete assessments.
“These repairs are the first step,” Mahfood explained. “For many families, getting a roof back over their heads means safety, dignity and protection from the elements.”
New Hybrid Homes for Families Who Lost Everything
For families whose homes were destroyed, Food For The Poor will build an upgraded version of its traditional wood-frame house. Called the FFTP Hybrid, the new design includes:
• Concrete strengthening for stronger wind resistance
• Reinforced roofing
• Improved structural durability
The charity is also exploring additional financing options to speed construction and stimulate Jamaica’s local economy by purchasing materials locally.
A Multi-Phase Plan to Restore Communities
FFTP’s broader recovery plan includes:
• Large-scale roof and structural repairs
• New home construction with storm-resistant designs
• Support for farmers, fishers and small businesses
• Restoration of community buildings, clinics and schools
• Expansion of safe water and sanitation systems
• Strengthening of church-based disaster response networks
“Recovery will take time,” Mahfood said. “But Jamaicans have always risen together. Each shipment, each volunteer, each partner adds a piece of hope back into our communities.”
