KINGSTON, Jamaica — Discovery Bauxite’s water wells in Discovery Bay have become a key resource during the ongoing hurricane recovery period, providing thousands of gallons of water to communities and individuals in the company’s operational areas, as well as to persons and agencies in neighbouring parishes.

Since the hurricane-induced disruption of National Water Commission (NWC) supplies, Discovery Bauxite has stepped up to offer water to trucks as far as Montego Bay where the convention centre is currently housing an arm of the World Central Kitchen team, which is preparing thousands of meals daily for hurricane relief distribution to the hardest-hit areas.

Discovery Bauxite’s water facilities are also serving local St Ann communities, schools and agencies. An open water stand located adjacent to the company’s public clinic in the Jacks Lodge district of Discovery Bay has become crucial for survival.

Small business owner Pauline White, based in Farm Town, expressed deep appreciation for the company’s support, describing it as “a lifeline during a period when access to the NWC supplies are down”.

Likewise, private truck operator Linburgh Gayle shared his gratitude, noting that with the access, he can respond to daily requests from schools, churches, families, and numerous individuals in need of water.

In a statement, Discovery Bauxite expressed sympathy for those impacted by the hurricane’s devastation, stating, “We sympathise with the thousands of Jamaicans who have lost lives, homes and livelihoods as a result of the hurricane. We will continue to do our part to assist with water and other relief items as long as our pumps are able to carry the additional loads.”

The company added, “Our supplies are important to hundreds of persons who travel from local communities and nearby parishes to get water, and we are grateful for the opportunity to be of assistance in this time of national need.”

Community residents from areas of St Ann securing water from the Discovery Bauxite public water stand at Jacks Lodge, Discovery Bay