The Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association (CHTA), the CHTA Education Foundation (CHTAEF), and the Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association (JHTA) announced a joint effort to support the recovery of Jamaica’s tourism sector following the impact of Hurricane Melissa.

Acting as a unified tourism relief force, the three organizations are coordinating industry support, mobilizing funds, and providing direct assistance to workers, small tourism operators, and affected communities across the island.

“As Jamaica begins to recover from the effects of Hurricane Melissa, the Caribbean tourism sector once again demonstrates its unity and resilience,” said Vanessa Ledesma, CEO of CHTA. “We are working hand in hand with our partners and the JHTA to support affected communities and tourism professionals whose dedication sustains our industry. Together, we will help rebuild the region stronger than before.”

Coordinated Tourism Recovery Initiatives

The implemented actions include:

• CHTA Disaster Response Fund: Financial support for short- and medium-term recovery needs for tourism employees, tourism-related businesses, and community partners. Assistance is also provided to members of CHTA’s Young Leaders program in Jamaica and their families.
• CHTA Education Foundation Relief Efforts: Launch of a solidarity raffle featuring hotel stays donated by members, with funds directed to affected workers, their families, and children, ensuring stability and access to education, training, and essential services. Donations are tax-deductible.
• “One Caribbean” Solidarity Initiative: Reactivation of the program inviting hotels and tourism service providers to contribute a percentage of bookings made through December 15, 2025, toward the recovery of small tourism businesses, community operators, and staff needs.
• “Adopt a Family” Program: Direct connection between donors and affected hospitality families, prioritizing households with newborns, pregnant women, and individuals with disabilities. Financial and in-kind support will be offered, prioritizing local purchases whenever possible.

All initiatives will be executed in close collaboration with tourism leaders and local partners to ensure aid reaches those most in need. Additionally, JHTA will implement additional programs at the local level.

Collaboration with Jamaica Tourism Cares

These actions complement the efforts of Jamaica Tourism Cares, the island’s official tourism relief channel, which focuses on immediate humanitarian needs, while CHTA, JHTA, and CHTAEF focus on short- and medium-term recovery of the tourism workforce and small operators.

The funds raised will support emergency supplies, construction materials, household goods, clothing, and school supplies, as well as education and training for local tourism staff.

Urgent Relief — Jamaica Tourism Cares

CHTA Disaster Response Fund