KINGSTON, JAMAICA — Charity organisation United Way of Jamaica (UWJ) says it will distribute a $100 million donation from JETS Limited in response to the Hurricane Melissa relief this year.

The donations, to be managed by the non-governmental organisation, form a part of the JETS corporate social responsibility (CSR) programme.

It is being managed in two tranches of $50 million each. Eight entities will receive funds in the first tranche: with Belmont Academy receiving $10 million; St Elizabeth Technical High School, $7.5 million; William Knibb Memorial High School, $5 million; Hampton School, $5 million; Black River High School, $5 million; Manning’s School, $5 million; Mustard Seed Communities, $5 million; and the UWJ’s agricultural relief effort, $5 million.

Recipients for the second tranche of $50 million will be confirmed and announced shortly.

Chair of the board of directors for United Way of Jamaica, Dr Devon Smith, lauded JETS for its contribution to national rebuilding.

“This is the singular largest donation to the United Way and is a great contribution for the restoration of our country. This donation impacts not only in terms of the infrastructure, but shows how JETS is ensuring the stability and resilience of the education system,” Smith said at the handover in late December.

JETS Limited, the operator of the MultiLink Debit network, has been an annual partner with the United Way of Jamaica since 2019.

“We have appreciated working with United Way of Jamaica as the organisation is a stalwart ally and has made it possible for us to reach out to the wider society through our CSR programme, especially with our focus on education and healthcare,” declared JETS Chief Executive Officer Edmundo Jenez.

“This is the single largest contribution we have made, and we know it’s in safe hands.”

Smith gave the assurance that the UWJ has the system to monitor, evaluate and report on the work done by the beneficiaries.