Kingston, Jamaica — The National Commercial Bank (NCB) has successfully met its $150 million target for the Jamaica Recovery Fund, aimed at supporting relief efforts for Hurricane Beryl victims. The achievement, announced on Monday, comes just three weeks after the fund’s launch and includes a matching contribution, bringing the total available funding to $300 million.
The NCB statement highlighted the impressive response from both local and international donors, which has significantly bolstered the fund’s capacity to aid recovery and rebuilding efforts in severely affected communities. Key focus areas include St. Elizabeth, Hanover, Clarendon, and Manchester, with resources allocated to housing recovery, small business support, and the agricultural sector.
Talia Lynn, chairperson of the NCB Foundation, expressed gratitude for the support received. “NCB is the people’s bank, and this initiative reflects our commitment to uplifting Jamaicans in need,” Lynn said. “The generosity and solidarity demonstrated by our donors will have a profound impact on the lives of those affected by Hurricane Beryl. We are rebuilding homes and communities and strengthening Jamaica’s resilience.”
Funds have already been put to use, including a notable contribution to the Bread Foundation of Treasure Beach. The Foundation has utilized the funds, in partnership with the Global Empowerment Mission (GEM) and the American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ), to procure a 500KW generator to restore water supply in the Treasure Beach and Great Bay areas of St. Elizabeth.
Jason Hensel, founder of the Bread Foundation of Treasure Beach, praised the collective effort. “The community response to the Building a Better Jamaica Fund has been both overwhelming and inspiring,” he said. “It highlights the power of collective action and the substantial impact we can achieve when we unite for a common cause. This fund is crucial in our ongoing efforts to help our neighborhoods recover and rebuild stronger from the devastation of Hurricane Beryl.”
The NCB Building a Better Jamaica Fund, established following the hurricane’s impact, was initially launched with a $20 million contribution from NCB. The fund is managed by the NCB Foundation and benefits from partnerships with established national and international NGOs, local charities, and social development agencies.
This significant achievement underscores NCB’s dedication to supporting disaster relief and community recovery efforts, reinforcing its role as a key player in Jamaica’s humanitarian and development landscape.
