Operating under the VividFaith network of the General Conference, a 31-member team of skilled volunteers from the Caribbean Union Conference arrived in Jamaica on January 16 to assist with relief and recovery efforts following the devastation of Hurricane Melissa. Within a two-week period, the team, made up of masons, carpenters, electricians and other skilled professionals replaced 33 roofs and constructed 6 new homes for displaced families. Approximately 22 members of the team were assigned to serve communities across the parish of St. James while the remaining members worked within the North Jamaica Conference.
The group was led by Dr. Ashton O’Neil, Director for Personal, Publishing, Prison and Prayer Ministries at the Caribbean Union, and Pastor Dale Haynes,Community Services Director of the East Caribbean Conference. Together, they provided assistance in the pastoral districts of Roehampton, Cambridge, Mt. Carey, Chester Castle, Dumfries, Lottery,Granville, Pitfour, Welcome Hall, Vaughansfield and Salt Spring. Building materials for the projects were supplied by the West Jamaica Conference.
Skilled volunteers from the Caribbean Union Conference gather for a group photo during their time of service in western Jamaica, where they assisted with roof repairs and home construction for families affected by Hurricane Melissa :: Photo credit: Contributed
After working on several repair sites across the parish, Katie Riley, a school principal from Barbados and the only female member of the team, said the experience deeply affected her perspective on service and gratitude.
“This was an eye opener,” said Riley. “We take so many things for granted, and when you see people living without something as basic as a roof, it changes your perspective. When we complete the repairs, there is so much joy on their faces.”
Following his visit to several homes, one of the plumbers on the team, Grafton Best, shared that the assignment also left a lasting impression on him. “From this effort, I have seen the resilience of the Jamaican people and I’m happy to be among them to assist and offer my skills in their time of need.”
Pastor Donovan Williams, Vice President of West Jamaica Conference and one of the Parish Relief Coordinators for St. James, expressed appreciation for the team’s commitment. “Words are not enough to express our gratitude. Their willingness to serve is admirable and individuals in the community saw their dedication and have been showing their appreciation.”
Among those who benefitted from the initiative was Bronette James, a member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Hampton whose roof was destroyed by winds reaching up to 185mph. Unable to finance the repairs herself, she shared that the assistance brought her great relief. “I feel so elated and relieved knowing that if it rains, I can lay comfortably in my bed without worrying about any leaks. I could not afford to fix it on my own so I’m very grateful.”
Bronette James (centre) stands alongside the volunteers from the Caribbean Union Conference in front of her newly reroofed home, restored following damage caused by Hurricane Melissa. :: Photo credit: Contributed
Pastor Vencot Dyer, Ministerial Director of West Jamaica Conference and the second Relief Coordinator for St. James highlighted the team’s work ethic noting their intent to help as many households as possible.
“I think the group was intentional about getting as many done as they could and they worked without respect for the time. They were so committed to the task that they refused to take any days off. I believe that they did a fantastic job in the short period of time they were here. They did not complain even when things were not perfect.” He added, “I would work with them again any day.”
He also emphasized that continued support through manual labour and financial assistance is critical to rebuilding. “While the group did a great job, only a small fraction of those in need of homes were assisted. There are still thousands in need so the more we can get assistance with manual labour and funding, the more we will be able to make a difference. We appreciate the support we have been getting and continue to crave the support of our external partners and other skilled laborers.”
Recovery efforts in western Jamaica remain ongoing. For families who lost their homes and livelihoods, the months ahead are crucial. Individuals and organizations interested in supporting the work are encouraged to visit westjamaica.org or give.westjamaica.org.