AMERICAN Friends of Jamaica (AFJ), in partnership with Hardware & Lumber Limited (H&L) and the Hardware & Lumber Foundation, has launched an $80-million programme to support farmers severely impacted by Hurricane Melissa, which struck Jamaica on October 28, 2025.

The Category 5 storm caused an estimated $30 billion in agricultural losses, affecting approximately 70,000 farmers, with small farmers in Westmoreland, St Elizabeth, Hanover, St James, and Trelawny among the hardest hit.

The initiative, being led by AFJ, aims to help farmers recover quickly by restoring access to critical agricultural inputs.

Under the programme AFJ has committed US$500,000 (approximately $80 million) to fund the distribution of 1,600 co-branded AFJ/H&L gift cards, each valued at approximately $50,000, enabling small farmers to purchase seeds, fertilisers, chemicals, tools, and other essential supplies from Hardware & Lumber through its retail network — H&L Agro and H&L Rapid True Value.

AFJ and H&L will work closely with the Ministry of Agriculture, the Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA), and the Jamaica Agricultural Society to identify eligible farmers across the affected parishes.

Gift cards will be jointly distributed by the partners, with AFJ spearheading distribution efforts. “As small farmers work to rebuild after Hurricane Melissa, timely access to inputs is critical,” said AFJ President Wendy Hart.

“This partnership allows us to deliver practical, accountable support that puts choice and dignity directly in the hands of farmers,” added Hart.

Hardware & Lumber will provide discounted pricing and best-available rates on targeted agricultural products, and will supply regular reporting to ensure transparency and accountability. The H&L Foundation’s General Consumption Tax (GCT)-exempt status will further maximise the value of funds deployed.

The partners will also collaborate to reduce logistical barriers, including exploring pop-up distribution points and transportation solutions to ensure farmers can access supplies efficiently. Any unused balances after the programme’s May 31, 2026 expiration date will be redirected toward additional Hurricane Melissa recovery initiatives.

According to chairman of the H&L Foundation Olive Downer Walsh, the partnership underscores a shared commitment by AFJ, Hardware & Lumber, and the H&L Foundation to support Jamaica’s small farmers and strengthen rural resilience in the wake of natural disasters.

“At H&L we believe collaboration is the engine for success in recovery. We’re proud to partner with American Friends of Jamaica whose commitment to sustainable development and community empowerment inspires us to keep delivering the best solutions for the farmers and communities we serve,” said Downer Walsh.

“Together, we’re confident this initiative will strengthen our farmers’ work in building Jamaica’s food security. When we work side by side, everyone wins,” added Downer Walsh.

Pictured at the soft launch of a new Hurricane Melissa relief programme in Maggotty, St Elizabeth, are (from left) Odean Bradshaw, general manager, H&L; Olive Walsh, chairman, H&L Foundation; Caron Chung, executive director, AFJ; and Sudu Ramani, CEO of H&L.

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