J’can, Trindidadian Chinese communities partner to step up relief

Jamaica Gleaner | 2025-12-05 | Original Article

WESTERN BUREAU:

 

The Chinese community in Montego Bay, St James, has joined forces with the Trinidad and Tobago Chinese Chamber of Commerce to deliver humanitarian aid to residents still reeling from the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa.

 

The relief effort, mobilised within days of an urgent appeal from western-based Chinese organisations, has resulted in the acquisition of mattresses, bottled water, sanitising supplies, tarpaulins, and food items for some of the most vulnerable families across St James.

 

Yansen Li, vice-president of the Fujian Association of Jamaica, said the need on the ground demanded immediate action.

 

“We have about 200 mattresses, 500 cases of bottled water, sanitising products, tarpaulin, and rice – just to help people who really need it,” Li said. “And I just want to thank the Chinese community in Trinidad for helping [to meet] the needs of the Jamaican people. Their support made this possible.”

 

The Fujian Association, which has roots in western Jamaica, has been coordinating with local authorities to identify households in urgent need of bedding, food, and hygiene supplies. For families living in shelters, waterlogged homes or temporary accommodations, the assistance could not be more timely.

 

Montego Bay Mayor Richard Vernon lauded the Chinese community for what he described as a pattern of proactive and compassionate disaster response.

 

“I want to thank the Chinese community in Montego Bay. They have been very proactive where disaster response is concerned, providing support to citizens across Montego Bay, and, by extension, St James,” Vernon said.

 

He noted that the decision by the group to reach beyond Jamaica’s borders in search of more resources exemplified a rare kind of humanitarian leadership.

 

“They reached out to the Chinese community in Trinidad and Tobago for additional supplies, and we want to thank them for that support. It will go a far way as we continue to respond to the disaster we have experienced over the last month,” he said. “We are going to ensure that our most vulnerable in Montego Bay get assistance, especially those who need mattresses and continuous supplies of food until they can find some level of stability.”

 

Residents across the parish, many still struggling to regain normalcy, say the gesture brings both material relief and emotional encouragement.

 

“This help means everything right now,” one mother from Norwood shared. “People are hurting, and to see others – from right here in Montego Bay and even all the way in Trinidad – caring enough to send help, … it lifts your spirit.”

 

albert.ferguson@gleanerjm.com

 

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