KINGSTON, Jamaica — As the restoration of electricity continues in communities in western parishes heavily impacted by Hurricane Melissa, Jamaica Public Service (JPS) is also providing support through initiatives designed to help residents recover and rebuild.

On Thursday, February 26, JPS hosted a Community Connect Fair in Beeston Spring, Westmoreland, bringing together a wide range of agencies and partners to deliver essential services directly to residents of the community and surrounding areas. The fair formed part of the company’s broader recovery support programme following the devastating effects of Hurricane Melissa, which hit the island on October 28, 2025 causing widespread damage across western Jamaica, including the loss of homes, livelihoods and important personal documents.

Manager for Community Renewal at JPS, Marilyn McDonald, shared, “Our Community Connect Fair is one element of JPS’ broader recovery support strategy for hurricane-affected communities. In addition to restoring electricity, the company has been providing assistance through initiatives such as pop-up energy hubs, community and town hall meetings, and ongoing engagement with community leaders, political representatives and residents to address concerns and support recovery efforts.”

More than 1,000 residents attended the event, which provided convenient access to critical social services while creating a welcoming, family-friendly environment where residents could connect and receive much-needed support in one location.

While children enjoyed rides and treats, hundreds of adults took advantage of the opportunity to sign up for house wiring and home repair assistance through the Jamaica Social Investment Fund (JSIF). Others applied for the replacement of important documents such as birth, marriage and death certificates, with JPS covering the associated costs.

Residents were also able to access medical and dental checks, tax registration support, housing assistance, skills training applications and social support services.

Participating entities and agencies included JSIF; Digicel Foundation; Food For The Poor Jamaica; National Water Commission, HEART/NSTA Trust; Jamaica Constabulary Force; Jamaica Fire Brigade; Ministry of Health and Wellness; Ministry of Labour and Social Security; National Housing Trust; Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management; National Identification and Registration Authority; National Insurance Scheme; National Land Agency; Passport, Immigration and Citizenship Agency; Programme of Advancement Through Health and Education; Rural Agricultural Development Authority; Social Development Commission; Tax Administration of Jamaica; Wray & Nephew; Campari; Youth Innovation Centre; and CPR Medical.

McDonald said the initiative reflects the company’s commitment to supporting communities beyond the restoration of electricity supply.

“The recovery process goes far beyond rebuilding the network. We understand that many residents lost homes, documents and essential resources, and this initiative is about bringing meaningful support directly to the people who need it most. By working with our partners, we are helping residents access services that can make a real difference in their recovery,” she said.

JPS continues to work closely with community stakeholders and partner agencies to identify opportunities to support residents in areas heavily impacted by Hurricane Melissa.

The company said it remains committed to helping communities recover, not only by restoring electricity, but by supporting the people and families who depend on it.