In the wee hours of Saturday, November 15 2025, President Demar Lyle led a number of his Kiwanis Club of Constant Spring members on a journey to the district of Caledonia, Westmoreland, after reports of the desperate need left behind by Hurricane Melissa.

Their mission was to distribute care packages to the community of shut-ins, disabled individuals, vulnerable children and other persons easily overlooked as more able-bodied persons rush to the head of the relief line.

“The journey from Kingston was a sobering one,” President Lyle reflected. “Although this Category 5 hurricane occurred October 28, 2025, the suffering in its wake continues to be immense.

“The social media videos told no lies! The assistance is flowing in, with convoy upon convoy of trucks escorted by police, seen heading to the devastated western areas. But it’s the sight of previously independent women and children with outstretched hands, begging unashamedly, as vehicles pass in either direction – that is most heart-rending,” Lyle said after the visit.

Given its primary focus – the welfare of Children – the Kiwanis Club of Constant Spring has taken a keen interest in the impact that the trauma, homelessness, hunger and the cessation of schooling will have on the affected children, the president underscored.

That has influenced the club’s decision to further its involvement in this affected area of Caledonia, with the objective of rebuilding the totally destroyed basic school there. To this end, it is seeking to raise cash and kind donations, along with service support from members and friends.

Constant Spring Kiwanians delivering relief supplies for residents of Caledonia, Westmoreland.

Residents of Caledonia, Westmoreland gather for care packages brought by members of the Kiwanis Club of Constant Spring, St Andrew.