GSAJ, free zones spread holiday cheer to hurricane victims
ST JAMES, Jamaica — In a powerful display of corporate synergy and seasonal goodwill, the Montego Bay Free Zone (MBFZ), in partnership with the Global Services Association of Jamaica (GSAJ), transformed the holiday season for hundreds of residents still reeling from the impact of Hurricane Melissa.
The collaborative “Christmas Treat,” which received significant support from the Kingston Free Zone (KFZ), targeted families from within the communities of Catherine Hall, downtown Montego Bay, Glendevon, West Green and several surrounding communities that suffered greatly from the category five storm.
The initiative held on the grounds of the Montego Bay Free Zone recently restored hope by going beyond traditional festivities and focusing on the immediate recovery needs of the affected citizens.
In addition to food and essentials, the organisers established a “Clothes Closet,” a well-appointed station where residents could select quality clothing items to assist in their daily recovery and help replace what was lost during and after the storm — some of which was caused by severe flooding.
Recognising the emotional toll of the hurricane on the parish’s youngest residents, the event featured a massive kiddies fun day which later shifted to one of pure celebration as 160 children were presented with Christmas gifts.
The fun day package included a safe space for families to reconnect and celebrate, receive festive treats and traditional Christmas meals and thrilling rides and interactive entertainment.
One Catherine Hall resident, Lelithe Robinson, who assisted in the day’s activity said she was impressed with the clothing line, in particular, that offered new items.
“I was really impressed with the closet where persons could go in and pick out free items of clothing. That was very good. Everything was in abundance,” stated Robinson, who said the children enjoyed themselves.
Unlike several of her neighbours who were severely flooded out with water, mud and debris, Robinson who is living on the second floor of a building was not impacted.
Robinson said the Catherine Hall and West Green communities are now approximately 75 to 80 per cent back to normal following the assistance of various organisations, the government and its agencies.
Vice-president of the BPO and Logistics Division at the Port Authority of Jamaica Gloria Henry emphasised that the event was a testament to the importance of “looking out for one’s neighbours.”
“I would say that the Montego Bay Free Zone emphasised the importance of collaboration and community support for our neighbours, particularly during the Christmas season,” stated Henry.
“This initiative reflects the strength of partnership across the Free Zones and the BPO industry. In a time of recovery, it was important for us to come together to offer practical assistance while restoring hope and joy to families affected by Hurricane Melissa,” added Henry.
According to Henry, the initiative also underscores the BPO industry’s commitment to corporate social responsibility and community resilience, while the Kingston Free Zone’s contribution highlighted the importance of national collaboration in times of crisis.
“Our clients and partners reaffirmed their commitment to continued community engagement and support as affected communities rebuild and move forward,” argued Henry.
— Anthony Lewis
