FOLLOWING the devastation caused by Category 5 Hurricane Melissa which slammed into Jamaica’s south-western coast on October 28, Stewart’s Automotive Group has so far mobilised more than $30 million in relief efforts across St Elizabeth, Westmoreland, St James, Trelawny, and St Ann.

In the three weeks since the historic hurricane, the automotive group — through its Richard and Diana Stewart Foundation and Kind Hearts Foundation — has led the distribution of essential items, including food, water, mattresses, and clothing to more than 2,000 families throughout western Jamaica.

The group’s relief operations have reached communities such as Catherine Hall, Bunkers Hill, Good Hope, Salt Marsh, Brown’s Town, Shrewsbury Logwood, Carawina, Doman Lane, Bullet Tree, Petersfield, and Belmont.

“Jamaica is heartbroken by the overwhelming devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa,” said Jacqueline Stewart Lechler, managing director of Stewart’s Automotive Group.

“Our brothers and sisters in the west are facing unimaginable losses. Through the Richard and Diana Stewart Foundation and Kind Hearts Foundation, the Stewart’s Automotive Group has responded to the call for action to help our fellow Jamaicans in every way we can,” shared Stewart Lechler.

She pointed out that the group’s ongoing relief efforts are supported by a network of corporate and civic partners including Automotive Art, Beds for Jamaica, Issa Construction, Jamaica Biscuit Company Ltd, Kiss Baking Jamaica, and several others.

In addition, the Petersfield Shelter received a water filtration system from Isratech Jamaica Ltd and Planet Water, as well as two generators donated by Croydon in the Mountains, the Honey Bun Foundation, and God’s Pit Crew.

“On behalf of the Petersfield community and the people of Westmoreland, a big thank you for the assistance and packages,” said Anthony Clarke, manager of the Petersfield Shelter. “We didn’t just get food and supplies, we got hope.”

As part of its continued commitment to recovery, Stewart’s Automotive Group has pledged $100,000 from every vehicle sold towards relief and rebuilding initiatives.

According to Stewart Lechler, working through the Richard and Diana Stewart Foundation, Kind Hearts Foundation, and partners such as Food for the Poor Jamaica, the American Friends of Jamaica, and the Global Empowerment Mission, the group remains committed to helping restore homes and livelihoods across the island.

”Every vehicle purchased helps a family rebuild. Every purchase drives hope,” said Stewart Lechler.

Stewart’s Automotive Group Managing Director Jacqueline Stewart Lechler helps deliver care packages to families in Westmoreland impacted by Hurricane Melissa.