THE MONTHLY GLEANER | FEBRUARY 12 - MARCH 14, 2026 | www.jamaica-gleaner.com | NEWS 4 NEW YORK, NY: FOR SCORES of residents in the Catherine Hall and Westgreen subdivision of Montego Bay, St. James, memories of the Christmas holidays will linger on for the foreseeable future for a number of reasons, including the ferocity of ‘Mother Nature’ and the collective act of human kindness. Eight weeks earlier, Hurricane Melissa, the powerful Category 5 storm, roared its way through the community, leaving a path of destruction and death, that forced the Government to declare the area a disaster impact zone. The Jamaica Awareness Association of California (JAAC) would step forward to help a community in need as they have done so many times before. With compassion at the centre of its mission, JAAC assembled and delivered 125 care packages to residents of Catherine Hall and Westgreen, Montego Bay – two communities significantly affected by the storm. Recognizing the urgent need for immediate relief, JAAC mobilised its members and resources to respond swiftly. Volunteers travelled door to door, personally delivering care packages filled with essential items to households still reeling from the storm’s destruction. “JAAC has always believed that service is not just what we do — it’s who we are,” said Patrick Williams, president of JAAC. “When we saw the need in Catherine Hall and Westgreen, we knew we had to act. These care packages are a small gesture, but we hope they brought comfort, dignity, and a reminder that no one is forgotten.” The organization had earlier identified these communities as areas where residents were struggling with the immediate aftermath of the hurricane. Many families faced damaged homes, loss of utilities, and limited access to basic supplies. JAAC’s contribution aimed to help stave off some of the hardship, offering both practical support and emotional encouragement during a difficult time. Residents expressed gratitude for the personal touch of JAAC’s outreach. Volunteers didn’t simply drop off supplies — they listened, encouraged, and stood in solidarity with families navigating the storm’s aftermath. JAAC remains committed to supporting Jamaica through recovery and rebuilding efforts. As the island continues to heal, the organization will explore additional ways to assist communities most affected by Hurricane Melissa. “Our hope,” Williams added, “is that these acts of service remind our brothers and sisters in Jamaica that they are not alone. JAAC stands with them today, tomorrow, and for as long as it takes.” Group brings relief on Christmas Eve to communities impacted by Hurricane Melissa WE CARE. Patrick Williams (right) president of the Los Angeles - based Jamaica Awareness Association of California (JAAC), Inc., presented care packages to residents of Westgreen/Catherine Hall, while visiting during the holidays. CONTRIBUTED
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTUzNTI=