Jamaicans, particularly in the west of the island, continue to rebuild their lives following the country’s worst-ever storm

Christian charity HOPE Worldwide UK heads into 2026 continuing to support people in Jamaica whose lives and homes were ravaged by Hurricane Melissa.

Melissa, the strongest storm to ever strike Jamaica, left widespread destruction in its wake, demolishing homes, crippling critical infrastructure and depriving families in the hardest-hit parishes of food, clean water and electricity, particularly in the west of the island.

Communities across Jamaica are grappling with the immense challenge of rebuilding while addressing immediate survival needs.

‘The vastness of the damage’

Craig Reynolds, a church minister in St Catherine, told of the damage done by winds of more than 150mph.

“The scale and enormity of the destruction to buildings and infrastructure in the town centre is beyond belief or adequate description,” he said.

“Only by seeing for oneself can one fully capture the vastness of the damage done.”

For more on the scale of the damage and some inspiring personal stories of people helped by HOPE Worldwide UK, watch this video:

In response, HOPE worldwide UK, working alongside trusted international partners, continues to deliver vital aid to affected areas, including non-perishable food, hot meals, clean drinking water, hygiene kits and emergency roof coverings for families and vulnerable residents.

Thanks to UK donors

Thanks to UK donor support, which passed £13,000 in in the lead-up to Christmas, more Jamaicans are receiving the urgent assistance they need as the nation embarks on the lengthy road to recovery.

Officials are urging the public to contribute, emphasising that every donation helps save lives, rebuild communities, and restore hope in this critical time: https://hopeworldwide.org.uk/hurricane-melissa-appeal/