90-y-o ‘Mass Joe’ benefits from house refurbished after Hurricane Melissa through community effort
ST ELIZABETH, Jamaica — A nine-decade resident of New Town known locally as “Mass Joe” has been given a new lease on life after Hurricane Melissa left his home with a severely damaged roof and exposed him to the elements.
When the storm tore off the entire roof of the 90‑year‑old’s house, neighbours initially covered the home with a tarpaulin. The temporary measure, however, proved inadequate: heavy rains continued to penetrate the shelter and left Mass Joe vulnerable and uncomfortable.
Member of Parliament, Floyd Green donated zinc sheeting for the roof. Brady’s Construction Company Limited mobilised management and staff to provide lumber, carpenters, painters and building materials. Neighbours contributed labour, food and other supplies. The project was coordinated by Superintendent Coleridge Minto, head of the St Elizabeth Police Division, who also received support from fellow police officers.
Under the coordinated effort, the entire roof was replaced; interior and exterior walls were repainted; an old mattress was replaced; and the kitchen cupboard was renewed, among other repairs and home improvements. The combined work restored the structural integrity and livability of the house.
Superintendent Minto praised the collective response.
“This kind of work shows what can be accomplished when public servants, private sector partners and neighbours come together for a vulnerable member of our community,” he said, expressing special appreciation for the immediate neighbours whose quick action sustained Mass Joe until the repairs could be completed.
Neighbours and project volunteers described Mass Joe as humble and grateful. They said the repairs have restored his sense of security and wellbeing after a frightening period following the hurricane.
The successful rebuild in New Town stands as an example of community resilience and partnership across sectors, from elected representatives and private business to police leadership and neighbours, demonstrating how coordinated local action can quickly address urgent needs when formal assistance is unavailable.
