Corporate Compassion: Jamaica’s Financial Sector Rallies for Hurricane Melissa Relief

In the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s devastating impact, Jamaica’s financial institutions have stepped up in a big way, showcasing the power of corporate responsibility and community spirit. On November 14, 2025, Scotia Group Jamaica, led by President and CEO Audrey Tugwell Henry, made headlines by committing approximately $18 million to Food For The Poor Jamaica. This generous donation aims to provide essential food and care packages to families affected by the hurricane, forming part of a larger $165-million national relief effort.

A Unified Response

The response from the financial sector has been nothing short of remarkable. CIBC Caribbean, in collaboration with its parent company, has pledged US$500,000 (around J$79.5 million) for a multi-faceted relief initiative. This includes funding a field hospital in Savanna-La-Mar and offering financial relief through pre-paid cards for essentials.

“Every little bit helps,” said Marsha Burrell, marketing, PR, and missions manager at Food For The Poor. “The support from Scotia and CIBC is crucial for families trying to rebuild their lives.”

Hands-On Help

But it’s not just about the money. Both Scotia and CIBC are mobilizing their employees to lend a helping hand. Volunteers from Scotia have been busy packing thousands of food parcels at the Food For The Poor Elerslie Pen location. Over 60 Scotia Foundation volunteers, including Roger Miller and Fabian Maxwell, worked tirelessly to assemble more than 2,000 packages.

“It feels good to give back,” said Maxwell, as he loaded bags of rice and beans onto a pallet. “We’re all in this together.”

CIBC’s Kingston-based team is also getting in on the action, packing care packages for their colleagues and communities in the western part of Jamaica. “We’re not just a bank; we’re part of this community,” emphasized a CIBC employee, reflecting the sentiment shared by many.

A Broader Impact

The commitment doesn’t stop at food and financial aid. CIBC’s Chief Executive Officer, Mark St Hill, has been actively involved in coordinating efforts, including the deployment of a field hospital with the help of the Barbados Defence Force. “This is a regional effort,” St Hill noted, highlighting the collaborative spirit that transcends borders.

As the field hospital prepares to open its doors, the urgency of the situation is palpable. Many families are still grappling with the aftermath of the hurricane, and the need for medical care is critical. The support from CIBC and other organizations is a beacon of hope for those in distress.

Community Voices

Local residents have expressed gratitude for the swift action taken by these financial institutions. “It’s heartwarming to see our banks stepping up when we need them the most,” said a community leader from Savanna-La-Mar. “This kind of support makes a real difference.”

Looking Ahead

As Jamaica navigates the challenges posed by Hurricane Melissa, the collective efforts of Scotia Group, CIBC, and other organizations serve as a reminder of the strength found in unity. The road to recovery may be long, but with such dedicated support, there’s a renewed sense of hope among the people.

What more can we do as a community to support each other in times of crisis? The answer lies in our willingness to come together and lend a hand.