JAMALCO has provided care packages to some 220 residents in its operating communities in Clarendon and Manchester. This is being done in an effort to offset the needs of many residents who have been requesting help in the form of basic supplies and food items.

The company says it has been receiving numerous requests for assistance and despite the fact that it has not yet started producing alumina since fire impacted the company nine months ago, Corporate Services Manager Donna Marie Brooks says the plight of these residents is heart-wrenching.

“The company is aware of the high prices which have been impacting the vulnerable in these areas and the little we do goes a far way and make a huge difference in the lives of these residents,” Brooks said.

The care packages consist of bread, rice, flour, sugar, beans, salt fish, milk, cooking oil, canned foods, juice items, crackers, as well as personal care items.

Jamalco’s community relations officers are coordinating the distribution exercise and they have reported that the smiles on the faces of the beneficiaries as well as the gratitude they show are really heart-warming.

Shawnette Robinson and Hyacinth Johnson from the community of Raymonds in the Refinery Community Council gave special thanks to Jamalco for the care packages.

“We appreciate the gesture, and it will go a far way in helping us to survive this month,” the women said.

One resident exclaimed, “Mi never know say unnu start operate again, thank God fi Jamalco, unnu nuh forget us even it is difficult times.”

The care package distribution project is one aspect of the Jamalco Indigent Support Programme. The organisation also supports the indigent and elderly residents through its mattress distribution project and monthly distribution of supplies.