FALMOUTH, Trelawny — Scores of people from all walks of life and ages have benefited from a massive hurricane relief and Christmas treat put on by Free Your Image (FYI) Consultancy Group and Friends, with overwhelming support from corporate Jamaica and the Diaspora.

The large-scale initiative was held at William Knibb Memorial High School grounds in Martha Brae, Trelawny, on Sunday. It marked the culmination of four hurricane relief efforts spearheaded by FYI, following the passage of the recent hurricane which exited the island through Trelawny.

Hundreds of residents turned out for what organisers described as a day of giving, healing and celebration, as more than 600 care packages were distributed alongside free health-care services, counselling, food and entertainment.

Managing director of FYI, Paula Pinnock said the organisation deliberately chose to end its relief drive with a Christmas-focused event in Trelawny, an area she noted has not always received the same level of attention as other hard-hit parishes. She explained that the aim was to go beyond handing out care packages by creating a welcoming environment where families could experience joy and normalcy after weeks of disruption.

“We wanted to end with a Christmas initiative, bring some joy, play some music, have some fun whilst still giving out over 600 care packages today. Lots of shopping, that’s what people are doing — free shopping,” said Pinnock.

Attendees were treated to a free, thrift-style, shopping experience featuring new clothing — including international brand names — household items and tarpaulins. Children enjoyed bounce about attractions, toy giveaways, popcorn and snacks, as well as photo opportunities with Santa Claus and the Grinch, while parents were served hot soup. Football matches between under-14 teams added to the festive atmosphere, drawing enthusiastic support from the crowd.

The event was powered by partnerships with Jamaica National, JN Foundation, JPS, Purity, Pure Water, and Automotive Art, with support from Breezes Foundation and the Government of The Bahamas. Members of the Jamaican Diaspora from the United States and United Kingdom also travelled to the island to assist with the outreach.

Omar Wright of JN Foundation said the organisation is proud to support FYI and Friends in what he described as its seventh hurricane relief mission in western Jamaica. He noted that the effort extended beyond material aid to include medical services and counselling, acknowledging the emotional toll disasters have taken on families. Wright also announced the launch of the I Support Jamaica Fund, which will channel donations into education, first responders, and registered community development organisations.

Principal of William Knibb Memorial High School Linvern Wright welcomed the initiative, describing it as timely and uplifting. He said the overwhelming turnout reflected the level of need, while the football competition and festive activities helped restore community spirit and allowed families to look forward to a brighter Christmas.

Sunday’s event closed with music, laughter, and long lines of grateful residents as organisers reaffirmed their commitment to continuing hurricane recovery and community support efforts in the months ahead.

From left: Principal of William Knibb Memorial High School Linvern Wright; Dewight Jeremiah; and Nugent Walker, executive manager for Usain Bolt, were among participants at the FYI and Friends hurricane relief and Christmas treat in Trelawny, Sunday. (Photo: Horace Hines)

Omar Wright of the JN Foundation, delivers a care package to a resident during the FYI and Friends hurricane relief and Christmas treat on the grounds of William Knibb Memorial High School in Trelawny, Sunday. (Photo: Horace Hines)

Residents form a line at the free, thrift-style shopping booth at the FYI and Friends hurricane relief and Christmas treat in Trelawny, Sunday. (Photo: Horace Hines)

UK donor Simone Malcolm (left), Santa Claus (second left), and managing director of FYI Paula Pinnock (right) create memories with a child during the FYI and Friends hurricane relief and Christmas treat in Trelawny on Sunday. (Photo: Horace Hines)