J Wray & Nephew Limited says it is continuing its programme of saluting community heroes this month and will open nominations on Monday, October 17, National Heroes’ Day.

The nomination period will run through to November 12, 2022 during which one winner will be selected daily after which a brief validation process will result in a weekly announcement of five winners, with each community hero receiving a cash award of $50,000.

The programme, which began in 2021, is part of the company’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative which won the Jamaica Manufacturers and Exporters Association CSR award in 2020 and 2021.

The competition rewards people who are integral to Jamaica’s recovery from the novel coronavirus pandemic and the resilience of its communities during this challenging time.

“As we travelled across Jamaica for our various interventions over the last two years, the work of our community heroes could be seen and felt in the resilience and national pride of our people,” a company release quotes Tanikie McClarthy Allen, senior director of public affairs and sustainability.

“Many of these Jamaicans have brought their communities together without much support and, in many cases, using their own resources. We thought it most fitting to recognise their work and highlight the causes that so moved them during this period of celebration when the nation is focused on our national heroes,” she added.

Nominations are open to people who have had significant impact on their communities — including doctors, nurses, members of the security industry, social workers, medical ancillary and support staff, transportation personnel and supermarket staff.

The company is encouraging Jamaicans to nominate their local hero via J Wray & Nephew’s Facebook page and @jwncorporate on Instagram.

Last year more than 400 front-line workers received over $21 million from a similar search conducted by J Wray & Nephew.