by Brian Major
Last updated: 2:05 PM ET, Tue November 4, 2025
The Caribbean Media Exchange (CMex) is partnering with the
Government of the U.S. Virgin Islands to raise funds in support of the people
of Jamaica as the nation continues to recover from the devastating impact of
Hurricane Melissa.
The initiative is being coordinated through Teri Helenese,
the U.S. Virgin Islands Director, State-Federal Relations and Washington
Representative for the Government of the Virgin Islands in Washington, D.C.
CMex has a longstanding commitment to regional solidarity,
having previously partnered on relief efforts for the people of St. Vincent and
the Grenadines during the volcanic disruption in 2021.
Helenese called the response “heartening,’ saying it exemplifies
the Virgin Islands’ deep sense of solidarity with Jamaica. “This partnership
reflects who we are as Caribbean people — compassionate, collaborative and
committed to one another’s well-being,” she said.
She added, “In the U.S. Virgin Islands, we know all too well the power and
aftermath of storms like this, the uncertainty, the fear, but also the
incredible resilience that rises from within our people. We are one Caribbean, connected
by history, culture and unbreakable spirit. Together, we will get through
this.”
CMex is also leveraging its relationships with private and
nonprofit allies with strong connections to the Caribbean.
“It’s very much a coordinated and fast evolving tactical
effort with incredible partners to provide help where it’s needed most,” said
Heidi Clarke, Executive Director of Sandals Foundation.
Clarke explained the Foundation is currently focused
on responding to first-response needs, including humanitarian and medical.
“Once immediate needs are addressed, we’ll move into the rebuilding phase and
zone in on strengthening the infrastructure of our health care and
education sectors as well as the services they provide,” she added.
“In times of crisis, our region must unite as One Caribbean,”
said Bevan Springer, CMex’ president. CMEx is proud to work alongside the
Government of the Virgin Islands, the people of the VI, and partners across the
Caribbean diaspora to help Jamaica rebuild lives, restore hope and strengthen
communities.”
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