FOOD For the Poor Jamaica (FFP) and Excelerate Energy have strengthened their long-standing partnership to deliver urgently needed medical and humanitarian relief to communities across Jamaica affected by Hurricane Melissa.

Using its LNG carrier vessel, the Excelerate Shenandoah, Excelerate quickly transported large quantities of humanitarian aid — including medical tents, hospital beds, emergency equipment, generators, water purification tablets, and medical consumables — from Panama to Jamaica. The effort drew on Excelerate’s operational capacity to rapidly mobilise aid through its integrated LNG services and logistics network, while working in partnership with FFP to ensure swift and equitable distribution of supplies.

This relief operation is being carried out in coordination with the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management and the Ministry of Health and Wellness, ensuring that assistance reaches health facilities and communities most in need.

Dr Christopher Tufton, minister of health and wellness, who was on hand at the Kingston Freeport Terminal to welcome the arrival of the Excelerate Shenandoah, commended the support.

“The assistance provided through Excelerate for medical supplies and mobile health units will play a major role in restoring health-care services in affected areas,” he said. “We are deeply grateful for this collaboration, which ensures that our hospitals and clinics can continue serving Jamaicans where they are needed most.”

In addition to this effort, Excelerate is also working with Project CURE to deliver additional medical supplies and equipment, including emergency relief cots, wound care items, personal protective equipment and medical consumables. The initiative forms part of Excelerate’s broader commitment, which has mobilised over US$1 million for Hurricane Melissa relief and recovery efforts in Jamaica.

Andrew Mahfood, chairman of FFP Jamaica, underscored the significance of the partnership.

“Excelerate’s leadership and partnership have been instrumental in our efforts to reach those most in need. Their quick response and ongoing collaboration have made a tangible difference for thousands of vulnerable families who suffered significant loss following the hurricane,” he said.

And Steven Kobos, president and chief executive officer of Excelerate Energy, in emphasising the company’s commitment to long-term recovery, said when lives are disrupted and communities are hurting, there’s a responsibility not just to restore energy, but to help people recover and rebuild.

“We are honoured to stand alongside the Government of Jamaica, our partners, and our team to support impacted communities. Their strength and compassion inspire us, and we remain committed to helping Jamaica build a more resilient energy future,” he said.