KINGSTON, Jamaica — Sagicor Group Jamaica, through the Sagicor Foundation, has committed approximately J$200 million to assist communities affected by Hurricane Melissa.

The comprehensive support package includes J$40 million in direct relief for Sagicor team members who were impacted by the storm.

To date, 224 Sagicor employees residing in the hardest-hit parishes have been identified for targeted assistance. As part of its immediate response, the company has distributed “family boxes” to more than 670 individuals, including team members and their families, across 48 communities in five parishes. Volunteers from Sagicor’s subsidiaries were also mobilised to help with the packaging and distribution of supplies.

Grants to support immediate needs and interest-free loans to assist affected team members with long-term rebuilding efforts are also part of the company’s initial response. The local efforts are being supported by Sagicor Financial Company (SFC), the group’s parent company, which has pledged matching donations from employees in other Sagicor territories to aid long-term recovery.

Sagicor is also exploring additional ways to support clients who have been deeply affected, helping them regain stability and return to normalcy during this difficult time.

President and Chief Executive Officer of Sagicor Group Jamaica and Chairman of the Sagicor Foundation Christopher Zacca, visited Black River, St Elizabeth, on Tuesday to personally assist with relief distribution and assess the damage caused by the hurricane.

“It was quite disheartening to see the level of devastation in Black River and the toll it has taken on our team members and clients, as well as their families, not to mention the communities we serve,” said Zacca. “Many of our own team members have suffered significant losses, and as an organisation rooted in care and compassion, we are doing everything we can to help them rebuild.”

He reaffirmed Sagicor’s commitment to Jamaica’s recovery.

“Sagicor has stood beside the people of Jamaica for over five decades, and in this moment of challenge, we remain steadfast in that promise. Beyond assisting our team members, we are committed to working with our partners and the wider community to help restore stability and hope in the areas most adversely impacted by Hurricane Melissa.”

The Sagicor Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Sagicor Group Jamaica, will continue to coordinate the rollout of this relief initiative as recovery efforts progress across the island.