State Allocates $18.7 Million to Restore 102 Westmoreland Churches Hit by Hurricane Melissa

A combined $18.7 million has been allocated to 102 churches across Westmoreland under the Government's Community Churches Clean-up and Restoration Grant facility, led by the Ministry of Local Government and Community Development, to assist recovery from Hurricane Melissa.

The Social Development Commission (SDC) presented cheques to pastors and church representatives during a grant distribution ceremony held at the Darliston Holiness Church in Westmoreland on Thursday, June 25.

Among those receiving funds was Bishop Bernard Fenley, Pastor of the Bibleway Apostolic Church. He recalled the painful sight that greeted him when he returned to his church after the hurricane. Although the damage at first left him disheartened, he said his faith gave him the resolve to press on.

Bishop Fenley described the grant as a timely and welcome boost to rebuilding efforts and offered sincere thanks for the Government's assistance. "When I got that text this week [to collect cheques], I was so happy and joyful. We are very grateful, and we will put it to good use," he said.

Addressing the gathering, Minister of Local Government and Community Development, Hon. Desmond McKenzie, praised churches for maintaining their ministry despite the widespread destruction Hurricane Melissa brought. "Many of our churches found the courage and the strength to continue to operate under tents and in open spaces, continuing to do the work that they have been ordained to do," he said.

Minister McKenzie stressed that churches remain central institutions in communities, supporting members in a range of ways.

Mayor of Savanna-la-Mar, Councillor Danree Delancy, welcomed the programme, noting that churches are indispensable pillars of Jamaican society. He pointed to their role in providing both spiritual guidance and practical help to vulnerable residents.

The initiative is being carried out in partnership with the National Solid Waste Management Authority (NSWMA). Regional Operations Manager, Dramaine Jones, said the effort goes beyond physical repairs and supports healthier communities. "By taking an active role in environmental clean-up and restoration, there is a demonstration that a profound commitment is being made to civic pride and public health," he noted.

Mr. Jones called for continued strong partnerships among churches, residents, and government agencies, saying collective action is essential to keeping communities clean, safe, and resilient.