First Global Bank gives $2.5m to restore hurricane-hit schools

First Global Bank is observing its 25th year in Jamaica by putting $2.5 million toward the recovery of two schools badly damaged by Hurricane Melissa.

The funding has been assigned to Black River High School in St Elizabeth and Muschett High School in Trelawny. Each school will receive $1.25 million to help cover repair work and replace important teaching and learning materials that were damaged during the hurricane.

The assistance is expected to support urgent restoration needs, including work on laboratories and teachers' facilities. It will also help replace key technology, lab items and instructional equipment needed to get learning areas functioning again for students and staff still dealing with the storm's effects.

"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."

Muschett High School Principal Leighton Johnson said the contribution has arrived at an important stage in the institution's rebuilding effort.

"This generous contribution from First Global Bank comes at a critical time for our school community. 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 thanked the bank, calling the support timely and significant.

"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 added.

FGB's donation comes as several schools and communities continue to work through the lasting damage left by the hurricane, including harm to buildings, classroom materials and staff areas. For many institutions, getting laboratories, digital resources and teaching equipment back in place is central to keeping classes going in spaces that are safe, usable and properly supplied.

First Global Bank said the initiative reflects its belief that Jamaica's future depends on steady support for the institutions that develop young people, assist teachers and serve as community anchors.