GEORGE TOWN, Cayman Islands (CMC) — The Cayman Islands Government has sent US$1 million to Jamaica to help the island recover from the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa.

This was part of the US$1.2 million pledge made in October last year in the wake of the hurricane. The money will be used for a community voucher programme, education recovery and agricultural restoration.

On October 30, in the immediate aftermath of the storm, the government shipped emergency relief supplies valued at nearly US$200,000, which were delivered by a delegation led by Premier André Ebanks.

Officials explained that the voucher programme, which accounts for US$333,000 of the funds sent, enables residents in need to purchase building materials for home repairs while also stimulating economic activity in affected communities.

The same amount will go to the education sector to help rebuild schools and procure essential educational supplies, such as textbooks, chalkboards and tools, and US$334,000 will go toward the agricultural restoration programme to support farmers in recovering lost crops and livestock, enabling them to resume operations and restore economic stability in the west.

Ebanks said disbursing the remainder of the pledged funds underscores Cayman’s enduring partnership with Jamaica’s government and people.

“The Cayman Islands continues to stand firmly with Jamaica during this critical period of recovery. Our contribution reflects our shared Caribbean bonds and our belief in Jamaica’s resilience. As recovery continues, we remain committed to offering meaningful support that helps communities recover, livelihoods restart and families look to the future with renewed hope,” he said.

“We recall the profound impact Hurricane Ivan had on our own islands, and we remain grateful for the compassion Jamaica extended to us during that difficult time,” he added.

Ebanks noted the shared history of Cayman and Jamaica and their mutual responsibility to one another as neighbours. The government further reiterated its commitment to support regional neighbours in times of need through ongoing efforts to promote resilience, recovery and long-term stability.