GUARDIAN Group on Thursday handed over approximately $2.3 million to support schools in western Jamaica affected by Hurricane Melissa, reinforcing its commitment to education, community recovery and regional solidarity.

The contribution forms part of proceeds from the 2025 Securing Hope for Those In Need (SHINE) Charity Walk/Run held in Trinidad and Tobago.

SHINE 2025 raised more than $18 million in support of children’s charities.

This year, a portion of the funds was dedicated to Jamaica, reflecting Guardian Group’s belief in responding collectively as a Caribbean community in times of need.

Speaking at the handover, Guardian Group’s chief operating officer and chairman of the Guardian Group Foundation Greer Quan underscored the importance of regional unity and purposeful action.

“SHINE represents more than giving. It reflects our responsibility to stand with each other as a region, especially in moments of need. We are proud to partner in supporting schools as they work to restore stability and create the environment students need to learn and thrive,” Quan.

The funds — channelled to Jamaican schools through the National Education Trust (NET) in partnership with the Ministry of Education — will support priority needs including access to learning materials through shared photocopying services, provision of generators to restore electricity, and minor infrastructural repairs.

Executive director of NET Latoya Harris-Ghartey expressed appreciation for the timely support and highlighted the impact it will have on Jamaica’s education system.

“In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa many of our schools faced significant challenges that disrupted teaching and learning. This contribution will directly support schools such as Frome Technical High School and others within its cluster, helping to ensure continuity in education. Together, we are restoring opportunity and strengthening a more resilient education system,” said Harris-Ghartey.

In the meantime, state minister in the Ministry of Education Rhoda Moy Crawford commended the Guardian Group for its continued investment in Jamaica’s recovery and development.

“This handover is a strong example of regional partnership in action. It is a reminder that Caribbean solidarity is not just an idea, but a lived commitment to each other’s recovery and progress.

“Contributions like this will directly support critical repairs; replace essential materials; and help restore safe, supportive learning environments for our students,” said Crawford.

She added that the education ministry remains committed to ensuring that every child returns to a safe and enabling learning environment, while expressing gratitude to regional partners for standing with Jamaica during this period of recovery.

SHINE has grown into a flagship Guardian Group initiative, driven by community participation and a shared commitment to improving the lives of children across the Caribbean.