A Mission of Healing: Bringing Hope to Westmoreland
After the destruction caused by Hurricane Melissa, a wave of healing efforts flowed through the Little London Primary School in Westmoreland, Jamaica, from December 17th to 20th, 2025. A dedicated group of medical and dental volunteers transformed the school grounds into a sanctuary of care, providing much-needed support to a community reeling from the storm's devastation. This mission, led by Morvia Reid-Williams, Chief Financial Officer of the Emirates Facial & Dental Implant Center (EFDIC), aimed to change lives one at a time, demonstrating that they were seen, heard, and cared for.
The mission served as a testament to resilience, unity, and the power of compassion. As Westmoreland prepared for Christmas, this humanitarian effort provided not only physical healing but also instilled a sense of hope and renewal in a community still grappling with the scars left by the hurricane.
A Coordinated Effort for Comprehensive Care
The mission was supported by a coalition of U.S. and Jamaican non-profit organizations, alongside a team of dedicated medical professionals. Reid-Williams, in partnership with Dr. Dwight Williams, an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, launched a comprehensive outreach program designed to address a myriad of health concerns. Although Dr. Williams was unable to attend in person due to commitments in New York, the mission benefitted from the expertise of U.S.-based and Jamaican professionals who collaboratively offered dental extractions, emergency care, health screenings, and mental health support.
An array of services was provided, with teams conducting blood pressure and diabetes screenings, treating wounds, offering psychological counseling, and educating patients about chronic illnesses like hypertension and diabetes. In parallel, meals and care packages were distributed daily to further nourish both body and spirit.
Addressing a Mental Health Crisis
The emotional wounds inflicted by Hurricane Melissa were evident, especially as many community members displayed symptoms of significant psychological distress. Dr. Natalie Irving-Mattocks, a co-founder and executive director of the Caribbean Technical Assistance and Education Centre for Health (C-TECH), highlighted the prevalence of depression and instances of suicidal thoughts among residents.
"This is a serious and escalating mental health crisis," warned Irving-Mattocks. Recognizing the necessity for sustained psychological support, she emphasized that without it, the community could see compounded issues like increased depression and suicide risk.
Acknowledging the depth of emotional pain among children, Reid-Williams noted the transformative power of art as a healing tool. Fifty children, aged three to twelve, participated in art therapy sessions, expressing their turbulent emotions through drawings. The initiative was a poignant reminder of the enduring impact of trauma on young minds and the necessity for ongoing support.
The Pressing Need for Dental Care
Among the most urgent health concerns was dental care. With more than 80 percent of patients presenting dental emergencies, the severity of oral health conditions in the community became clear.
Children as young as five faced sleepless nights due to intense toothaches, while adults grappled with severe infections and swelling caused by decayed teeth. Despite the dental team's tireless efforts, not everyone could be treated, a reality that underscored the immense challenges in addressing the community's needs within a limited timeframe.
Reaching Out with Love and Solidarity
The importance of the mission was underscored by Rev. Hartley Perrin, Custos of Westmoreland. Addressing the gathered crowd, he commended the volunteers for their compassion. He reminded everyone that the volunteers came willingly, driven by love and a desire to aid those affected by the hurricane's devastation.
"Where there is life, there is hope," he said, emphasizing that despite the scarcity, the community's resilience shines through. His words reflected the mission's theme—not just providing physical support, but bringing encouragement and a sense of unity in times of trial.
Personal Reflections on the Mission's Impact
For many volunteers, this mission was transformative. Dr. Alexia, one of the participating medical professionals, expressed her gratitude for being part of a team characterized by dedication and compassion. Reflecting on her experience, she spoke fondly of the warm welcome received and her newfound appreciation for Jamaica's culture of unity.
The mission also distributed over 1,000 care packages and provided supplies to the Savanna-la-Mar Hospital's maternity and pediatric wards. While cognizant that their efforts couldn't meet all needs, Reid-Williams recognized the crucial impact of their contributions, expressing hope for sustained efforts to support Westmoreland's recovery.
Paving the Path for Ongoing Healing
As the mission concluded, there was a clear message: beyond the immediate relief, long-term care, and support are essential to truly heal and rebuild the community. Dr. Irving-Mattocks stressed the importance of strengthening community-based counseling services, establishing trauma-informed care, creating referral pathways, and training frontline workers.
In closing, Reid-Williams encapsulated the spirit of the mission with gratitude, "One Love. One Heart. One Jamaica," highlighting the enduring bond between the volunteers and the community they served. The mission leaves behind a legacy of hope and a model of collaboration that exemplifies the resilience and compassion of the human spirit.
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