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Following Hurricane Melissa’s impact on Jamaica in late October 2025, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has provided humanitarian assistance and spiritual support to affected communities. The hurricane brought sustained winds of 185 mph, causing significant damage, displacing families, and disrupting essential services across the island.
More than 50 volunteers from the Church, many of whom suffered losses themselves, organized efforts to assist their neighbors. These volunteers prepared and distributed over 1,000 emergency packages containing non-perishable food, bottled water, and hygiene items. The aid reached families in Junction, Santa Cruz, Mandeville, Savanna-la-Mar, Hopeton, and Montego Bay.
In Savanna-la-Mar specifically, the Church partnered with organizations such as the Jamaica Red Cross and The Salvation Army to distribute supplies including shelter tools, blankets, tarpaulins, cleaning products, and hygiene kits. Each relief package was designed to sustain a family of four for one week. Local leaders noted that the Church was among the first organizations to provide help after the disaster.
The relief operation was led by Elder Ahmad S. Corbitt, Second Counselor in the Caribbean Area Presidency. He worked alongside representatives from the Welfare Department and local leaders to coordinate efforts with other national institutions.
Despite damage to their meetinghouse in Savanna-la-Mar on Sunday, November 3rd, members gathered for worship. During his visit there Elder Corbitt stated: “The Lord has aligned the keys of His power to identify those in need. Thus He built His Church — to go and rescue His sheep.”
Church members continued their service by providing practical help within their communities while expressing faith through action.
