KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Government of Jamaica says it has ramped up its humanitarian response to assist families affected by Hurricane Melissa, with coordinated efforts underway across the island to reach communities hardest hit by flooding and infrastructure damage.

Working in partnership with the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF), Members of Parliament, faith-based groups, and community organisations, the Ministry of Labour and Social Security (MLSS) says it has mobilised a large-scale relief operation to deliver essential supplies to vulnerable households.

According to the ministry, the JDF has completed 88 ground and air missions, providing food, water, and emergency aid to residents in hard-to-reach areas cut off by washed-out roads and damaged bridges.

“Our mission is simple — to ensure that no one is left behind,” said Pearnel Charles Jr., Minister of Labour and Social Security. “This is a time for compassion and collective action. Together with our partners and community networks, we are ensuring that relief reaches every household in need, especially the elderly, persons with disabilities, and families with young children.”

To date, the ministry says it has distributed 39,712 relief packages across the island, including food items, hygiene kits, tarpaulins, blankets, bottled water, cleaning supplies, mattresses, tabletop stoves, and solar lanterns, all aimed at providing safety, comfort, and dignity to those affected.

Parish teams continue to verify and deliver supplies, supported by the JDF’s logistics operations to ensure the safe transport of aid to isolated communities. The ministry said it is also providing clean-up assistance, replenishing parish stocks, and distributing sanitation materials to help families begin rebuilding their lives.

Residents in need of assistance are encouraged to contact their nearest MLSS Parish Office, call the MLSS Contact Centre at 876-922-8000-13, or send a WhatsApp message to 876-582-8972 with their location and household details.

“Recovery is not only about rebuilding homes — it’s about restoring hope,” Minister Charles added. “The ministry remains steadfast in our commitment to reach every affected community and support families on their journey to recovery.”

The Ministry of Labour and Social Security says it will continue to work closely with government agencies, the Humanitarian Assistance Committee, non-governmental organisations, community leaders, and private sector partners to ensure that help continues to reach Jamaicans in greatest need.