The Jamaica Red Cross (JRC) has begun rolling out its Cash Voucher Assistance (CVA) Programme, marking the second tier of its response to communities devastated by Hurricane Melissa. The programme is designed to support families transitioning from emergency relief to early recovery, restoring dignity and choice at a critical stage of the response.
Under this initiative, 7,250 people who were severely affected by Hurricane Melissa will benefit, with a total of JMD $725M committed from the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC)’s Emergency Appeal.
“Cash assistance allows families to prioritise their most urgent needs and begin rebuilding their lives in ways that make sense for them,” explained Leiska Powell, Emergency Services Manager, Jamaica Red Cross. “This programme represents a deliberate shift from immediate relief to recovery-focused support,” she added.
Phased Roll-Out Using the Access RC App
The CVA Programme is being implemented through a phased approach, with self-enrolment taking place via the Jamaica Red Cross’ mobile application, Access RC.
Phase One, which began on the 17th of December, is dedicated to testing and validation. This testing phase allows the organisation to validate systems, assess market and transfer mechanisms, and refine digital and assisted registration processes under real-world conditions. To date, approximately 200 households have received the cash benefit, inclusive of some Jamaica Red Cross Volunteers, who were severely affected by Hurricane Melissa. More than 2000 applications are currently being reviewed.
Phase Two – January 2026 (Full Roll-Out)
Come January, enrolment will expand to eligible households in priority parishes. While digital registration through the Access RC app will remain the primary channel, assisted registration will be conducted in selected communities where power outages, limited internet connectivity, or accessibility challenges persist.
“A phased approach helps us ensure accountability, data protection, and smooth delivery, especially in communities where infrastructure has been heavily impacted,” Powell explained. “It also allows us to adapt quickly to the realities on the ground.”
Prioritising the Most Vulnerable
Beneficiaries are being determined based on vulnerability criteria informed by ongoing assessments and coordination with local authorities. Priority is being given to:
- Female-headed households
- Households with elderly dependents
- Families with children under five years old
- Pregnant women
- Persons with disabilities
The cash assistance is multi-purpose and unconditional, enabling households to address their most pressing needs, including food, water, medical expenses, transportation, basic household items, and minor repairs.
Next Steps in the Recovery Phase
The Cash Voucher Assistance Programme forms part of a broader recovery strategy that will continue into 2026. Next actions will include:
- Expansion of livelihood recovery support, particularly for households dependent on agriculture, fishing, and tourism
- Continued market assessments to guide cash-based interventions
- Integration of Build Back Safer and disaster risk reduction messaging
- Ongoing community engagement, monitoring, and feedback to ensure accountability and effectiveness
“Our commitment is not only to help families survive the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, but to support them in getting back on their feet safely and sustainably,” Powell said.
The Jamaica Red Cross continues to work in close coordination with the Government of Jamaica, parish authorities, the IFRC, and humanitarian partners to support recovery efforts across the island.
Further details on enrolment timelines and community outreach will be shared as the programme progresses.