By Val Matthias. Updated 11:55 p.m., Sunday, November 9, 2025, Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4).
Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves has confirmed that he personally transferred EC$15,500 to the Vincentian Students Association in Jamaica (VINSA) to provide immediate relief to 31 students affected by Hurricane Melissa.
Speaking at a Unity Labour Party (ULP) political rally, Gonsalves described the gesture as one of deep personal commitment and love for the nation’s youth.
“Inside of my heart, I have an overflowing love for every single one of you,” Gonsalves told supporters. “I don’t like to boast, but I must mention this.”
With over 200 Vincentian students currently studying in Jamaica, Gonsalves said he reached out to VINSA leadership last Thursday to assess urgent needs following the hurricane’s passage. Upon learning that 31 students required immediate assistance, he acted swiftly.
“The student organization said they needed help right away. If they could get $500 each, it would tie them over for a couple of weeks with food until more support could come,” he explained.
Anticipating delays in government processing, Gonsalves bypassed bureaucratic channels and instructed his bank to wire the funds directly to VINSA’s account the following morning.
“I knew the government would take about seven days to send the money because of paperwork. So Friday morning, I called my bank and told them to send the $15,500.”
“This is not about politics it’s about our children, our students, and our duty to care,” Gonsalves said.
The emergency support comes as Jamaica begins recovery efforts following Hurricane Melissa, which caused widespread damage across the island. Vincentian students remain safe, according to earlier updates from VINSA, and continue to receive support from both governments and community organizations.
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