The Sean Paul Foundation (SPF), in partnership with Food for the Poor Jamaica (FFTP), recently visited communities and schools in Westmoreland, Jamaica, to distribute food, bottled water, hygiene packages, and other essential items to families severely affected by Hurricane Melissa.
“The team was heartbroken to witness firsthand the devastation and the urgent needs of residents,” stated the foundation on Tuesday, Nov. 11.
It stated that Food For The Poor set up operations at the damaged Petersville Primary and Infant School, serving as a hub to provide essential aid to families from neighboring communities, such as Petersville District, Long Hill District, and Congress Hall.
In addition to providing immediate relief, international recording artist Sean Paul and his team conducted damage assessments to identify ways to support the long-term recovery and rebuilding of homes, schools, and livelihoods.
“The devastation is real – the people are hurting and in need of urgent help,” Sean Paul said. “Jamaica is my home, and, honestly, I could hardly recognize any of the places that hold so many memories for me as we travelled through Manchester, St. Elizabeth, and Westmoreland.
“Even some of our landmarks were destroyed,” he added. “It felt like a scene from a horror movie. It is going to take a lot of help – an immense amount of money and time – to rebuild.”
Sean Paul said the visit also marked the beginning of new partnerships and the strengthening of existing ones.
In addition to collaborating with Food For The Poor to donate cash and distribute relief packages, the Sean Paul Foundation said it has contributed to several other efforts, including Romeich Entertainment’s relief drive, which is actively distributing Food and supplies to rural communities.
Sean Paul said he and his team met with Rockhouse Foundation at the Savanna-la-Mar Inclusive Infant Academy, where he joined volunteers in distributing water and relief packages as well as serving free, warm meals courtesy of World Central Kitchen (WCK) to residents affected by the hurricane.
Sean Paul said he previously partnered with the Rockhouse Foundation during the pandemic to assist with raising funds and awareness for schools in need, helping them prepare and distribute meals.
Paige Cofield, WCK director, said: “We’re so grateful to Sean Paul for joining World Central Kitchen in Jamaica to help serve meals to families and communities in need. His time, energy, and genuine care brought incredible spirit to our team and the people we serve.
“It’s always inspiring to see members of the community come together to share food and hope, and Sean’s involvement is a powerful reminder of what that looks like in action,” Cofield added.
