Press Release: MLSS Mobilizes Coordinated Humanitarian Response to Hurricane Melissa

Minister of Labour and Social Security, Hon. Pearnel Charles Jr., confirmed that the Ministry of Labour and Social Security (MLSS), comprehensive humanitarian response is underway following the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa, which caused severe disruption across the island—particularly in St. Elizabeth, Westmoreland, St. James, and Hanover.

The Ministry has prioritized rapid, door-to-door assessments, steady relief flows, and targeted support for the most vulnerable groups, including seniors, persons with disabilities, low-income families, and households isolated due to storm damage.

Minister Charles Jr said, “There is no blanket or fixed-sum grant in effect at this time, our focus remains on completing the assessment process and continue to provide relief — food, hygiene supplies, tarpaulins, and clean water — to those most in need.”

At the height of the storm, hundreds of emergency shelters were activated.

As of November 1, 55 shelters remained open, housing more than 700 displaced persons. Some 300 MLSS assessors, supported by national volunteers, are conducting Damage and Needs Assessments (DANA) across the hardest-hit communities a process which includes vulnerability tagging, to ensure that the most affected individuals receive assistance first.

The Ministry to date has distributed over 30,000 food packages, hygiene kits, 500 cases of bottled water, and 2,000 tarpaulins to affected households. Each parish has been allocated a J$2 million line of credit to prevent stockouts, while 33 MLSS vehicles are dedicated to last-mile deliveries.

The Ministry continues to coordinate closely with stakeholders including the Office of Disaster Preparation and Emergency Management, the Jamaica Defense Force, municipal authorities, and humanitarian partners including the World Food Programme (WFP), Jamaica Red Cross (JRC), and Food for the Poor (FFTP) to clear access routes and deliver aid to marooned communities.

Minister Charles Jr has outlined the MLSS strategic roadmap for recovery and support. “Over the next 14–30 days MLSS will

•Complete a verified household registry with vulnerability tags to guide the fair sequencing of support.

•Sustain relief efforts and continue deliveries to hard-to-reach communities.
•Provide temporary shelter solutions as needed, including large tents supplied by partners.
•Transition to early recovery, exploring targeted cash and livelihood support in coordination with ODPEM and the Ministry of Finance and the Public Service.
•Maintain public information and grievance channels, including helplines and parish offices.

To strengthen field operations, MLSS has procured StarLink devices to support officers in remote areas without internet or cellular service. This will ensure real-time reporting and coordination of relief efforts across affected parishes.

“Our teams are on the ground daily, working tirelessly to assist those affected,” Minister Charles Jr added. “If we have not yet reached you and you need help, please visit your nearest parish office when it is safe to do so, or contact our Call Centre at (876) 922-8000-13.”

The Ministry of Labour and Social Security urges the public to remain vigilant against false messages and viral forwards claiming that Hurricane Melissa grants are currently being issued. Citizens are urged to ignore unofficial forms, links, or WhatsApp numbers purporting to offer cash grants. All official financial support will be announced through verified Government channels following the completion of assessments.