Jamaica school recovery receives $224 million in foundation support

Following the impact of Hurricane Melissa in October, significant philanthropic efforts are underway to support school infrastructure and student needs across Jamaica.

The Sandals Foundation has led a restoration project valued at over $214 million to rebuild schools in the western and northern parishes. The initiative includes structural rebuilds, re-roofing, solar power installation, and water security upgrades. A major component of this effort is the reconstruction of Culloden Infant School in Westmoreland, which received over $100 million in upgrades, including new classrooms, electrical rewiring, and a library outfitted through a partnership with the U.S.-based non-profit Good 360.

Complementing these infrastructure works, the Usain Bolt Foundation has donated nearly $10 million to assist students with educational expenses for the 2026/27 academic year. The funds target students in Trelawny, St James, Hanover, Westmoreland, and St Elizabeth who successfully completed the Primary Exit Profile examinations. The foundation is providing direct support for school fees and related costs at various high schools and primary schools, including Bolt’s alma mater, Waldensia Primary School.