Carnival-led initiative delivers medical relief to Jamaica after Hurricane Melissa
Published:Thursday | December 18, 2025 | 4:40 PM
Jamaica on Thursday received a major shipment of medical and hurricane relief supplies at Reynolds Pier in Ocho Rios, as recovery efforts continue following the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa.
The supplies, delivered aboard the Carnival Horizon cruise ship, comprised 24 pallets weighing more than five tons, containing essential medical items and hygiene kits donated to the Ministry of Health and Wellness.
The shipment was formally received by Health and Wellness Minister Dr Christopher Tufton and Everton Anderson, executive director of the National Health Fund, who both welcomed the continued private-sector support for the island’s strained health system.
The humanitarian initiative was coordinated by Direct Relief and made possible through a US$1 million donation from Carnival Corporation, the Miami HEAT, and the Micky and Madeleine Arison Family Foundation.
Ahead of the ship’s departure from PortMiami, Miami HEAT legend Alonzo Mourning, along with team mascot Burnie, joined Captain Nick De Ranieri and the crew of Carnival Horizon to assist with packing and loading the supplies.
The maritime delivery forms part of a wider relief operation that also included a dedicated airlift of medical supplies from Miami, aimed at supporting hospitals and clinics across the island in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa.
Combined, the sea and air operations have delivered 144 pallets, totalling 68 tons of humanitarian aid, making it one of the largest private-sector relief contributions to Jamaica’s post-hurricane recovery.
Health officials have said the supplies will help strengthen frontline medical services at a time when hospitals and healthcare workers continue to face increased demand following the storm.
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