HANOVER, Jamaica  — In a powerful moment of community healing and empowerment, the Youth for Development Network (YFDN), in partnership with the Think Human Fund, delivered recovery grants and humanitarian support worth over $630,000 to women entrepreneurs affected by Hurricane Melissa, recently.

Organisers say over $630,000 in direct recovery support was distributed to several women entrepreneurs whose businesses provide essential goods and services that strengthen community resilience—including wellness products, natural juices, and personal care items.

In addition to the recovery grants, care packages containing food, drinking water, and essential supplies were distributed to children and families from hurricane-affected communities. These packages provided immediate relief while reinforcing the broader goal of community recovery and stability.

“This is more than a handover. It’s a hand-up,” said André  Wilson, founder & executive director of YFDN. “By supporting women-led businesses and responding to urgent family needs, we are helping entire communities recover—economically and emotionally.”

The “Gifts That Give Back” initiative is designed to generate double impact: women founders receive income and inventory support to restart their businesses, while vulnerable families receive essential goods and services directly from these same entrepreneurs.

The initiative aligns with YFDN’s VOW (Valuing Our Women) programme, which centres women’s economic empowerment as a pathway to community resilience. The activity was supported by The Syensqo Fund, the Hanover Chamber of Commerce, and community partners.