Stronger After the Storm: Supporting Jamaica’s Recovery and Resilience

Why It Matters

The approach illustrates a shift toward locally led, resilience-focused disaster recovery that can reduce long-term vulnerability and spur economic recovery, offering a model for donors and policymakers seeking more sustainable post-disaster investments.

Summary

Hurricane Melissa left parts of Jamaica with near-apocalyptic damage, destroying homes, an elementary school and a church, and stranding communities without food, water or aid. The speaker recounted urgent rescue efforts and widespread trauma, then described partnering with the Alliance for a Flourishing Jamaica (AFJ) and McKenzie to deliver targeted relief. Their recovery strategy emphasized holistic, resilience-driven interventions—livelihood vouchers for farmers, roof repairs for the most affected residents, and rebuilding schools and health facilities—using local contractors and grassroots networks. The effort combined immediate relief with sustainability and economic-growth principles rather than simply restoring the pre-storm status quo.

Original Description

When Hurricane Melissa devastated Jamaica, the immediate need was clear: get support to communities fast. But rebuilding for the long term required a different approach.

The American Friends of Jamaica partnered with McKinsey to help direct recovery efforts where they could drive the greatest long-term impact. Through listening tours, local partnerships, and targeted investments, the work focused on helping communities recover while building stronger foundations for what comes next. https://www.mckinsey.com/about-us/new-at-mckinsey-blog/stronger-after-the-storm-supporting-jamaicas-recovery-and-resilience

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