SAGICOR Bank Jamaica reopened its branch in Black River, St Elizabeth, on Friday, restoring the community’s only banking access after Hurricane Melissa caused severe damage in late October.

The storm, which affected communities across western Jamaica, shattered the branch’s windows with high storm surge, flooding the interior. With no other operational bank in the town, residents had been left without a local provider for basic financial services.

“We were clear that Sagicor Bank had to reopen in Black River, in the shortest possible time, to support our clients, businesses, and families as they rebuild,” said Chorvelle Johnson Cunningham, the bank’s chief executive officer.

The bank established a temporary facility on the site of its original location. During a two-day soft opening that began on December 15, about 500 transactions were completed, according to the bank.

The reopening forms part of a broader $200-million recovery fund announced by its parent, Sagicor Group Jamaica. The group said $100 million of that fund is earmarked for restoring clinics in western Jamaica, with $40 million already disbursed for staff relief.

Christopher Zacca, president and CEO of Sagicor Group Jamaica, said the branch reopening supports, “economic recovery at the community level”, while wider group initiatives focus on health care, education and social support systems.

Sagicor Bank Jamaica is the third most profitable commercial bank in the country and is part of the Sagicor Financial Company Ltd network.

Team members serving clients at the new temporary Sagicor Bank Black River branch. The original facility sustained severe damage during Hurricane Melissa and remained closed until mid-December. An official opening ceremony was held on December 19, 2025.