When Hurricane Melissa swept across Jamaica, it left a trail of destruction that many communities are still struggling to process. But nowhere felt the blow more deeply than Westmoreland—a parish known for its quiet strength, vibrant culture, and deeply rooted sense of community.
From flooded homes and destroyed crops to families left without electricity, clean water, or the basic supplies needed to get through each day, the aftermath of Melissa has been nothing short of devastating.
Yet in the middle of this heartbreak, something powerful is happening.
Westmoreland is rising.
The Impact of Hurricane Melissa on Westmoreland
Hurricane Melissa carved a painful path across the western parts of the island:
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Severe flooding swept through low-lying communities.
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Roads collapsed, leaving residents isolated and unable to access help.
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Homes were damaged or completely destroyed, especially in rural districts.
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Families lost crops, livestock, and livelihoods, threatening long-term economic stability.
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Schools, like Manning’s, completely devastated.
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Critical documents, including IDs and TRNs, were lost in the flooding—making recovery even harder.
In Westmoreland, communities like Savanna-la-Mar, Darliston, Whitehouse, Petersfield, Bethel Town, Little London, and Grange Hill have been hit hard. Many residents are now trying to rebuild with limited resources, uncertain timelines, and minimal access to government assistance.
The need is urgent—and growing daily.
Where Community Meets Action: The Birth of The Westmorelite Foundation
The devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa did more than expose the vulnerabilities in our communities—it sparked a movement.
In the days immediately following the storm, it became clear that Westmoreland needed more than sympathy. We needed structure, leadership, and action.
That moment became the catalyst for forming The Westmorelite Foundation—a U.S.-based nonprofit built to mobilize rapid relief, long-term recovery, and sustainable development for the people of Westmoreland and underserved communities across Jamaica.
Our founders—professionals, leaders, diaspora advocates, and sons and daughters of Westmoreland—came together with one shared belief:
When Westmoreland rises, Jamaica rises.
The Westmorelite Foundation was created to ensure that:
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Relief reaches families quickly and transparently
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Communities have the supplies and support they need to rebuild
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Local businesses are uplifted through economic activites, keeping resources circulating within Westmoreland
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Diaspora support is channeled into sustainable, community-focused action
What began as a response to a crisis has grown into a mission—to rebuild stronger, with dignity, respect, and deep cultural connection.
What We Are Doing Right Now
In response to Hurricane Melissa, The Westmorelite Foundation is actively working on:
✔ Emergency Relief
Providing families with meals from access points in their community. This ensures immediate access to essentials while supporting local businesses.
✔ Community Needs Mapping
Working with local leaders and volunteers to identify high-priority households, elderly residents, single-parent families, and the most vulnerable populations.
✔ Diaspora Mobilization
Connecting Jamaicans across the U.S. and abroad to channel donations, resources, and expertise back home.
This is only the beginning. Long-term rebuilding will require unity, strategy, and sustained support.
How You Can Help Westmoreland Rebuild
If you are looking for a meaningful, impactful way to support Jamaica after Hurricane Melissa, you can make a real difference today.
✨ Donate to the Westmorelite Foundation
Every contribution—big or small—goes directly toward rebuilding homes, restoring livelihoods, and helping families regain stability.
Your donation will help:
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Provide emergency supplies and vouchers
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Assist families in repairing damaged homes
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Support long-term recovery in affected communities
👉 Donate Now to Support Westmoreland’s Recovery
✨ Spread the Word
Share this article with others who love Jamaica or have ties to Westmoreland. Awareness fuels action.
✨ Volunteer or Partner With Us
We welcome collaborations with businesses, professionals, and community organizations who want to support our disaster recovery projects.
Westmoreland Will Rise Again — With Our Help
Hurricane Melissa may have shaken us, but it did not break us.
Westmoreland’s spirit remains unshakeable. Our people are resilient, creative, determined, and proud. And together—with your help—we will restore homes, rebuild lives, and create a stronger, more prepared Westmoreland for the generations to come.
Join us in this mission. Stand with Westmoreland. Be part of the recovery.
👉 Donate today and help us rebuild a brighter tomorrow.