AFJ and Partners Work Together to Support Hurricane Beryl Relief Efforts

Handover Ceremony Highlights Collaboration and Progress

Caron Chung, the executive director of American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ), echoed this sentiment through a popular and heavily believed Jamaican proverb that states, “One hand cyaa clap” during a recent handover ceremony for the Hurricane Beryl relief fund. She recalled how many people, organizations, and businesses came together to meet the needs of those affected by the storm in July.

FFP Jamaica Head Office Hosts Ceremony

The Food for The Poor (FFP) Jamaica head office in Spanish Town, St Catherine hosted the occasion. The AFJ gave a check for somewhat less than J$121 million to fund relief operations.

Progress Made in Two Months

In the two months since the Category 4 storm plunged a devastating blow to the island’s south coast, Chung noted that much progress had been achieved, drawing on a Jamaican adage emphasizing the value of cooperation in achieving shared objectives.

AFJ Grateful for Strong Relationships

Chung stated, “When I see the pictures [of the devastation] and I see houses that are now back in order, families can now get back to living in their space, [and] farmers are able to get back to their livelihood, we are doing an enormous and incredible initiative here together.”

She also said that the AFJ is grateful for the strength of its relationships in accomplishing this common objective and how these alliances have improved their ability to serve individuals.

Partnerships and Donations

In addition to working with FFP to carry out key projects in the southern parishes, the AFJ teamed up with the NCB Foundation to increase donations in support of relief operations.

A portion of the money earned on the AFJ platform has been donated to the BREDS Treasure Beach Foundation, which works to rebuild homes and businesses in the Greater Treasure Beach region.

BREDS Treasure Beach Foundation Updates

The BREDS Treasure Beach Foundation received US$150,000 in donations a few weeks after Hurricane Beryl passed, which the NCB Foundation promptly matched, according to Laura Henzell, a former volunteer and director of the organization.

Her words of appreciation for the collaboration included the fact that it made it possible for the charity to get essential building materials and lumber, which allowed them to get to the most affected areas and start rebuilding.

Updates from FFP

FFP executive director Kivette Silvera-Stephens mentioned that FFP was working quickly to bring some Portland Cottage and Clarendon residents back in the comfort of their own homes, but that some people were still living in shelters.

She went on to say that the homeowners’ inability to locate property for the reconstruction of their homes was a significant obstacle.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the AFJ and its partners have made significant progress in supporting the relief efforts for those affected by Hurricane Beryl. Through collaboration and donations, they have been able to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those affected. As Chung said, “but together, we can make a difference, and … we are asking persons to continue to help … to make a difference in these people’s lives.”

FAQs

* What is the AFJ?
+ The American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ) is a non-profit organization that works to support the people of Jamaica.
* What is the purpose of the Hurricane Beryl relief fund?
+ The purpose of the relief fund is to provide support to those affected by Hurricane Beryl, which struck Jamaica in July.
* What is the NCB Foundation?
+ The NCB Foundation is a non-profit organization that works to support the people of Jamaica through various initiatives and donations.
* What is the BREDS Treasure Beach Foundation?
+ The BREDS Treasure Beach Foundation is a non-profit organization that works to rebuild homes and businesses in the Greater Treasure Beach region.