Massy Distribution provides hurricane relief for St Elizabeth residents

In the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl’s destruction, Massy Distribution delivered much-needed aid to the residents of Bull Savannah in St Elizabeth. In a handover ceremony held on the grounds of Bull Savannah Primary School on July 20, the company distributed customised care packages to community members who were negatively impacted by the hurricane. Massy donated more than 1,000 cases of essential items, including water, diapers, baby food, and garbage bags.

Nicolette Casey, AVP/head-consumer sales & marketing at Massy Distribution, emphasised the significance of the donation, stating, “In the wake of this devastating natural disaster which has ransacked southern St Elizabeth, our hurricane relief donations represent more than the non-perishable aid that is critically needed. It signifies the solidarity and compassion of our community at Massy Distribution Jamaica Limited. This donation provides essential relief and aid to over 200 families in need during this challenging time.”

Hurricane Beryl caused an estimated more than $1 billion in damage to the agriculture sector and significantly impacted livelihoods, stock, and residences.

Relief effort

The brand manager for Suave paper products at Massy Distribution, Ester Bell, who spearheaded the relief effort, expressed her satisfaction with the support.

“Naturally, I am a helpful person. I normally love to give back. So, to be a part of this organisation that is family-oriented, and believes in supporting our community, it’s a good feeling for me to be here, to be a part of this, to know that we are giving back to persons and being a part of an organisation that prioritises giving back.”

Further, Bell shared the special connection between the company and the community, which was a driving factor behind the donation.

“We actually have staff members who are a part of Bull Savannah, and, when one of our employees shared with us the level of damages he and his family experienced, we did not hesitate to come and offer our support,” Bell said.

Residents welcomed their packages with gratitude, and many expressed their relief and appreciation for the support that had arrived at the right time.

Davian Walters, a local farmer, shared his experiences during the hurricane and the subsequent hardships faced by his community.

“This hurricane was one of the worst I have ever seen. It broke my window, my door, and my house. The darkness and mosquitoes make it rough, and people are having a tough time. So far, I haven’t received any help until now,” Walters explained.

Collin Cameron, the principal of Bull Savannah Primary School, also expressed deep appreciation for the contribution on behalf of both the school and the wider community.