ST ELIZABETH, Jamaica— The Howard Ward Benefit Foundation, in collaboration with Wards Power Tools, made a donation of over $3million in building supplies to aid families affected by Hurricane Beryl in St Elizabeth.

The outreach forms part of a concerted effort to provide relief and support to the community in the wake of the hurricane which caused devastation in the southern parish.

The generous donation includes essential building materials such as ply board, zinc, treated board, nails, paint and other supplies, which were distributed through Breds Treasure Beach Foundation, headed by Jason Henzell and issued directly to families in Junction, St Elizabeth, ensuring that those most in need received timely assistance.

In addition to the donation of materials, skilled carpenters were brought from Montego Bay, St James to work alongside their counterparts in St Elizabeth to construct a new house for a family in Short Hill in the parish whose home was completely destroyed by the hurricane.

“This hands-on effort underscores the commitment of the Howard Ward Benefit Foundation and Wards Power Tools to not only provide resources but also to actively participate in the rebuilding process,” a release from Wards Foundation stated.

Howard Ward, chairman of the foundation and chief executive officer (CEO) of Wards Power Tools expressed that the donation formed part of his company’s civic responsibility.

“Our hearts go out to the families affected by Hurricane Beryl. We believe it is our duty to step up and provide the necessary support to help these severely affected communities in St Elizabeth rebuild and recover in a timely manner,” Ward said.

The donation and the construction of the new home for Ionie Bromfield and her family is a true demonstration of community spirit, with the building of the one-bedroom, living room, kitchen and bathroom dwelling being completed over two days by the dedicated team, the release said.

The Howard Ward Benefit Foundation and Wards Power Tools extend their gratitude to all volunteers and partners involved in this relief effort. Their collective efforts have made a significant impact on the lives of those affected by Hurricane Beryl, Wards Foundation said.