Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL) has dispatched a large shipment of relief supplies to Jamaica in response to the devastation wrought by Hurricane Melissa. The storm, which made landfall on 28 October 2025, struck Jamaica as a Category 5 hurricane and left a trail of catastrophic destruction.
The consignment, which departed DDL’s Diamond facility last night, includes 3,376 cases of Diamond Mineral Water and 1,428 cases of TOPCO juices. In a show of regional solidarity, DDL’s associate company, National Rums of Jamaica (NRJ), is collaborating to ensure the supplies reach communities most in need.
Upon arrival in Jamaica, the relief will be cleared and distributed through a joint effort between the Jamaican Stock Exchange (JSE) and NRJ, with both organizations managing coordination and logistics.
The relief donation reflects DDL’s long-standing commitment to supporting Caribbean neighbours in times of crisis. “DDL is committed to supporting our Caribbean neighbours, especially in times of difficulty. Our donation is intended to assist communities in Jamaica as they work toward recovery, and we are pleased to provide essential supplies at this critical time,” said DDL Chairman Komal Samaroo. He added that DDL is deeply grateful for the assistance of National Rums of Jamaica, noting the company “stands with the people of Jamaica during their rebuilding efforts.”
Melissa struck with brutal force: when the eye made landfall near New Hope, Westmoreland Parish, the island was battered by sustained winds of 185 mph. The hurricane caused severe flooding, landslides, and widespread damage to infrastructure — particularly across Jamaica’s southern and western regions.
The storm has prompted an urgent humanitarian response: as of early November, hundreds of health facilities in Jamaica remain damaged, and several Emergency Medical Teams have been deployed to support relief efforts.
DDL’s delivery of much-needed clean water and juice is poised to play a vital role in Jamaica’s recovery, helping to ease an immediate burden on disaster-stricken communities as they rebuild in the aftermath of what many are calling the most powerful storm ever to hit the island.
