Chinese community gives $1m boost to hurricane-hit St Mary’s Prep

WESTERN BUREAU:

The Chinese community in Montego Bay, St James has donated J$1 million to the Montpelier-based St Mary’s Preparatory and Kindergarten School, to assist with its rebuilding, having sustained significant damage during the passage of Hurricane Melissa.

The school, which is located in southern St James, was among the schools severely affected by the hurricane, which caused extensive damage to classrooms, furniture, teaching aids and other critical infrastructure.

In the days after the hurricane, the school was also looted by unscrupulous persons, which added to the challenges faced by the school’s administrators and parents.

In an interview with the school’s principal, Dr Anthony Taylor, he told The Gleaner that the donation represents a timely intervention that has brought renewed hope to the school community.

“On behalf of the students, staff, and the wider St Mary’s Preparatory and Kindergarten School family, I extend our deepest gratitude to the Chinese community for their generous donation of $1 million towards our rebuilding efforts,” Taylor said. “This act of kindness goes beyond financial support; it represents hope, solidarity, and a shared commitment to the future of our nation’s children.

“At a time when our school faced immense loss, this contribution has renewed our strength and confidence to rebuild, restore, and rise again. We shall overcome bigger and better.”

Taylor further explained that the funds will be used to undertake urgent structural repairs, replace damaged learning materials, and restore a safe and nurturing environment for students.

Zipping Chen, president of the Fujian Association of Jamaica, a representative of the Chinese community, said the contribution forms part of a broader islandwide relief effort aimed at assisting institutions and vulnerable groups affected by the hurricane.

“Jamaica is home to us. In times of difficulty, we believe it is important to stand with the communities that have supported us for generations,” said Chen. “Education is central to national development, and by helping this school to rebuild, we are investing in Jamaica’s future.”

Javin Baker, the councillor for the Cambridge Division, welcomed the donation and praised the spirit of partnership demonstrated by the Chinese community.

“This generous support shows what can happen when communities work together,” said Baker. “The restoration of our schools is critical not only for education, but for the stability and confidence of our communities. I commend the Chinese community for stepping forward and I encourage other organisations to join the rebuilding effort.”

The school has indicated that it will ensure transparency and accountability in the use of the funds as it moves towards reopening fully restored facilities for its students.

albert.ferguson@gleanerjm.com