SAVANNA-LA-MAR, Westmoreland — Beyond immediate relief, Manning’s Past Students Association (MPSA) New York Chapter is now focused on scaling up its support through strategic fund-raising to provide long-term help for students, post-Hurricane Melissa.

The organisation is building on the work it already started with the launch of a Melissa Relief Fund, designed to provide rapid financial assistance once the school outlines its restoration priorities. It builds on work already started.

The chapter has outlined a robust fund-raising calendar for the upcoming year. It is also expanding its partnerships with overseas companies, particularly those with Jamaican roots or connections to Diaspora communities.

The main fund-raiser initiatives include the Giving Tuesday Campaign, a Christmas dinner, a fish fry in May, a barbecue in July, and the annual gala in October.

Members of the New York Chapter have also committed to making monthly financial pledges over the next year to strengthen ongoing philanthropic efforts.

Chapter President Kaleeb Plummer reaffirmed their dedication to being there for students.

“We are committed to doing more. Manning’s helped shape who we are, and giving back, especially during difficult times, is our responsibility and our honour,” she stated.

Work already done includes the donation of 84 care packages to some of the school’s most vulnerable students on November 25. Led by Plummer, the initiative targeted students still grappling with losses from the October 28 hurricane, including those who have been displaced or are part of the Programme of Advancement Through Health and Education (PATH).

Despite only sixth formers being present at the time, Manning’s teacher Jessica Davidson confirmed that systems are in place to guarantee that all students on the compiled list, whether back on campus or not, will receive their packages before the Christmas break.