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When people, communities, and the earth are cared for together, everyone can flourish.
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A message from our Founder

When Hurricane Melissa struck Jamaica, communities across the island were cut off, homes were damaged, and daily life was disrupted overnight.

In the days that followed, JACANA’s team mobilised quickly to clear roads, deliver relief, and reconnect people with essential services.

From that moment of urgency, JACANA Foundation was born as our dedicated platform for humanitarian relief, long-term rebuilding, and community resilience.

About JACANA Foundation

JACANA Foundation is a Jamaican non-profit organisation (#132657) focused on advancing community well-being, education, and health, particularly in underserved and rural areas, while promoting sustainable growth that nurtures both people and the planet.

With a strong focus in St Ann, Jamaica’s Garden Parish, we work hand in hand with local communities to build resilience, create opportunity, and protect the island’s natural heritage. Our programmes include partnerships with local schools, community groups, and farmers, empowering the next generation with knowledge, resources, and a deep respect for the environment.

Aligned with the values of JACANA, the Foundation recognises that strong communities and a healthy environment go together. By investing in people and the land, we create a ripple effect of positive change that strengthens livelihoods, improves access to education and healthcare, and preserves Jamaica’s rich natural and cultural legacy.

Our Story

JACANA Foundation was born out of both purpose and urgency. For years, JACANA has worked in St Ann to uplift communities through sustainable farming and plant-based wellness. When Hurricane Melissa devestated Jamaica, the need for a dedicated humanitarian arm became clear.

The Foundation has emerged as the formal philanthropic arm of JACANA, mobilising resources, coordinating aid, and helping families rebuild their lives. What began as emergency response is now a long-term commitment to:

  • Strengthening the resilience of communities
  • Supporting livelihoods and education
  • Caring for the land that sustains us

Today, JACANA Foundation continues to focus much of its work in St Ann while extending its reach across Jamaica, supporting schools, empowering farmers, and fostering a deeper connection between people, community, and nature.


Our Pillars of Impact

Community Development & Resilience

Community Development & Resilience

Empowering communities through livelihood programs, training, and access to essential resources that build long-term security and self-reliance.
Education & Youth Empowerment

Education & Youth Empowerment

Partnering with local schools to support youth development, agricultural education, and environmental learning programs that inspire future leaders.
Health & Wellness

Health & Wellness

Improving quality of life through wellness initiatives, access to healthcare resources, and programs that strengthen individual and community well-being.
Environmental Stewardship

Environmental Stewardship

Promoting sustainable farming practices that protect soil health, preserve water sources, and restore balance between people and the land.
Disaster Relief & Recovery

Disaster Relief & Recovery

Delivering coordinated, rapid-response aid and long-term rebuilding support to help communities recover and thrive after natural disasters.

PHASE 1

Clearing access paths

We’ve supported road and footpath clearing so that residents, emergency teams, and supplies can move safely again.

  1. Clearing debris and fallen trees from key access routes
  2. Supporting safe travel to clinics, schools, and markets
  3. Working alongside community members to reopen isolated areas

PHASE 2

Delivering relief kits

We’ve coordinated and delivered relief kits to families most affected by the hurricane.

Each kit typically includes essentials such as:

  1. Dry food, clean water, and basic household items
  2. Hygiene and care supplies
  3. Simple wellness items to support comfort and recovery

PHASE 3

Powering up communities

To help restore critical services, we’ve supported the deployment of solar-powered generators, Starlinks and other off-grid power solutions so that clinics, schools, and community hubs can operate even when the grid is down.

PHASE 4

Community care & long-term support

Beyond the initial emergency response, we are working with local leaders to understand longer-term needs, from repairs and infrastructure to psychosocial support, education, and livelihoods.

WHERE WE WORK

Our deepest roots are in St Ann, Jamaica’s Garden Parish, where JACANA’s farm and many of our partner communities are based. From here, we extend our support to rural and underserved areas across Jamaica, responding where the need is greatest and where we can build lasting impact together with local leaders.

How You Can Support

Every partnership, donation, and shared story helps us respond faster in times of crisis and invest deeper in long-term resilience.

Donate

Help fund hurricane relief, education, health, and regenerative agriculture projects. Your contribution supports people on the ground in Jamaica.

Partner with us

We collaborate with schools, NGOs, community organisations, and impact-driven companies. If your organisation wants to support Jamaica’s recovery and resilience, we’d love to hear from you.

Volunteer & in-kind support

From technical expertise to logistics and supplies, there are many ways to contribute beyond financial giving. Share your skills, amplify our work, or support specific initiatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Let nature, community, and care lead the way.

Join us in rebuilding, restoring, and reimagining what’s possible for Jamaica after Hurricane Melissa.