More than J$2 million has been donated to support schools impacted by Hurricane Melissa through the ‘Securing Hope for Those in Need’ (SHINE) Initiative, following the SHINE Trinidad and Tobago 2025 Charity Run.
Speaking during the handover ceremony for the proceeds, facilitated by the Guardian Group Foundation on Thursday (April 16) at Guardian Life Limited on Trafalgar Road in New Kingston, State Minister in the Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information, Hon. Rhoda Moy Crawford, welcomed the contribution, describing it as a timely show of regional solidarity and corporate citizenship.
“I extend sincere appreciation to the Guardian Group Foundation for this generous contribution of just over J$2 million in support of schools impacted by Hurricane Melissa,” she said.
The State Minister noted that the donation comes at a critical time as recovery efforts continue months after the hurricane caused widespread damage across the island, affecting hundreds of schools and disrupting the education of thousands of students.
She emphasised that the contribution underscores the strength of Caribbean partnerships.
“This is a perfect reminder that Caribbean solidarity is not just an idea but a lived commitment to each other’s recovery and progress,” Ms. Crawford said.
Guardian Group Chief Operating Officer, Greer Quan, explained that the initiative extends beyond financial support, reflecting a deeper commitment to regional cooperation and community development.
“It is about who we are as a Group and how, as a Caribbean organisation, we show up for the communities that we serve,” she declared.
Ms. Quan indicated that the funds, totalling US$2.3 million, will support critical repairs, provide learning materials, and facilitate emergency power solutions for schools affected in western Jamaica.
“This contribution will help restore safe and functional learning spaces… helping students and teachers return to environments that support growth, stability and, of course, progress,” she noted.
Executive Director of the National Education Trust (NET), Latoya Harris-Ghartey, highlighted both the extent of the damage caused by Hurricane Melissa and the vital role of partnerships in supporting rebuilding efforts.
“In the aftermath of hurricane, our schools… 600 and odd schools were left with significant damage… our teaching and learning… resources… disappeared in the breeze,” she said.
Mrs. Harris-Ghartey pointed out that every contribution plays a vital role in restoring access to education for students affected by Hurricane Melissa.
“Every dollar we get goes back into ensuring that a child is able to go to school, a child is able to access teaching and learning material, a child is able to be comfortable in a space that provides a nurturing and holistic environment,” she emphasised.
The Executive Director also commended Guardian Group for its support, noting that such partnerships are essential to advancing recovery efforts and strengthening the education system.
