LAMBS RIVER, Westmoreland — A team of social workers and volunteers has made a huge difference in the lives of 26 adults and 16 children within this western community, providing $700,000 in donated items and much-needed mental health support. Help came during the Jamaica Association of Social Workers (JASW) Mental Health Hub, part of an initiative aimed at supporting residents recovering from the effects of last October’s Hurricane Melissa. Lambs River was chosen as it was one of the hardest hit areas.

Focusing on mental health awareness, wellness, psychosocial support, and community care, 16 volunteers gave of their time during the event which was held on May 22 at Mount Hermon Primary and Infant School.

“The Mental Health Hub was conceptualised to create a safe and supportive environment where residents could access encouragement, information, and practical assistance during the recovery process,” JASW public relations officer, Donielle Prendergast-Shatock told the Jamaica Observer.

“We recognised the importance of not only helping communities rebuild physically, but also emotionally. As social workers we understand that recovery involves both physical rebuilding and emotional rebuilding,” she added.

The Mental Health Hub facilitated mental health education sessions, psychosocial support services, wellness discussions, and community engagement activities. Donated care items, such as clothing and shoes for all age groups, food items, books and toys for the children, were also distributed to residents.

Organisers said the event also provided a platform for community members to openly discuss the emotional impact of the hurricane, including the stress, uncertainty, and hardship experienced by families in the months following the disaster.

The responses from both residents and volunteers were described as encouraging.

“We have all come together in the spirit of service and solidarity,” Prendergast-Shatock said. “This reflects the profession’s commitment to supporting vulnerable communities, especially during times of crisis and recovery.”

The JASW’s message to residents is that recovery goes beyond repairing buildings and infrastructure.

“We hope persons will take away from today that recovery is also about rebuilding hope, resilience and emotional strength within communities. We want people to know that they are not alone and that support systems do exist to help them,” Prendergast-Shatock explained.

The organisation places great emphasis on mental health care before, during and after times of trauma.

“Mental health matters both before the storm, during the crisis, and especially after,” said Prendergast-Shatock.

While it has not yet confirmed whether the Mental Health Hub will become an annual event in Lambs River, JASW wants to continue expanding its outreach efforts into more underserved communities across western Jamaica.

Recognised as the first organisation of its kind in the Caribbean, JASW was relaunched in March 2026. Its mission is focused on enriching the professional growth and development of its members while advocating for vulnerable populations throughout Jamaica.

Principal of Mt Hermon Primary, Vashtie McCurbyn-Graham (right) receives a token of appreciation from Jamaica Association of Social Workers President Judith Cameron-Wait during a recent initiative aimed at supporting residents of Lambs River, Westmoreland, as they recover from the effects of last October’s Hurricane Melissa.