FGB marks 25 years with $2.5-m gift to two Melissa-ravaged schools

AS First Global Bank (FGB) marks 25 years of service to Jamaica, the financial institution is using the milestone to invest in education and community recovery, donating $2.5 million to two schools severely affected by Hurricane Melissa.

The donation will support restoration works at Black River High School in St Elizabeth and Muschett High School in Trelawny, with each institution receiving $1.25 million to assist with repairs and the replacement of critical learning resources damaged during the hurricane.

In a media release FGB said the contribution forms part of its commitment to corporate social responsibility, with its 25th anniversary being not only a moment of reflection, but also an opportunity to deepen its role in national development.

The funds will go toward critical recovery needs — including repairs to laboratories and teachers’ facilities — as well as the replacement of essential technological, laboratory, and instructional equipment. These resources are expected to help schools restore key learning spaces and reduce disruption for students and educators who are still recovering from the hurricane’s impact.

FGB, the banking arm of the GraceKennedy Financial Group, said the donation reflects its long-standing belief that education remains one of the strongest investments in Jamaica’s future.

As schools continue to rebuild, the bank said supporting students and teachers is central to helping communities regain stability and momentum after a disaster.

“For us at First Global Bank, 25 years is not only a business milestone; it is a reminder of our responsibility to the communities that have helped shape our journey,” said Noel Harty, branch manager, First Global Bank Montego Bay.

“Supporting Black River High and Muschett High at this time allows us to play a direct and meaningful role in restoring learning spaces, strengthening school communities, and investing in the next generation of Jamaicans,” added Harty.

Principal of Muschett High School, Leighton Johnson welcomed the donation as he noted that the support comes at a crucial point in the school’s recovery.

“Hurricane Melissa created significant challenges for our students and staff, and this support will help us restore important learning spaces and resources,” Johnson said.

At Black River High School, Principal Major Christopher Romans also expressed gratitude.

“We sincerely thank First Global Bank for this timely and meaningful investment in our school. This support will play a critical role in restoring our industrial arts department and ensuring that both our students and teachers have access to the essential equipment and resources required for effective teaching and practical training,” Romans said.

FGB’s support comes at a time when several schools and communities continue to manage the lingering effects of Hurricane Melissa, including damage to infrastructure, classroom resources and staff facilities.

In many cases, restoring laboratories, digital tools, and instructional equipment is essential to ensure students can continue learning in a safe, functional, and properly equipped environment.

According to FGB, through this initiative it hopes to reaffirm a simple but important message: Building Jamaica’s future requires sustained investment in the institutions that shape young people, support teachers, and anchor communities.

Black River High Principal Christopher Romans points to the school’s damaged auditorium roof in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa. (Photo: Karl Mclarty)