JAMAICA REBUILD & RESTORE
SUMMARY
The Jamaica Rebuild and Restore project focuses on raising funds to assist the Jamaican Church of God with the purchase of construction materials needed to rebuild 28 Church of God congregations damaged by Hurricane Melissa. These materials will support Jamaican-led rebuilding efforts and will also be used by U.S. volunteer teams who will travel to Jamaica to serve alongside their brothers and sisters in Christ. Through praying, giving, and going, churches and individuals across the Church of God Movement are invited to unite in restoring places of worship that serve as both vital centers of worship and ministry.
COST
We hope to send 10 teams of 10 people (100 volunteers) to Jamaica by August 2026. Additionally, this project looks to raise $100,000 to help purchase the tools and materials these teams will work with on the ground.
Project # 42.30611
background
background
In the final week of October 2025, Hurricane Melissa made landfall in Jamaica as a Category 5 storm, becoming the most powerful hurricane ever recorded to strike the island. The storm caused widespread destruction, severely impacting communities across the country and placing immense strain on families, churches, and local infrastructure.
Within the Jamaican Church of God:
• 1,642 individuals were identified as needing assistance, with many displaced from their homes
• 55 of 110 congregations are located in the hardest-hit areas
• 28 congregations reported direct damage, ranging from roof loss and structural compromise to total destruction
• At least 5 pastoral homes sustained major damage
• Many families lost agricultural livelihoods, increasing vulnerability to financial and food insecurity
• 1 Church of God woman tragically lost her life when a tree fell on her home during the storm.
strategy
strategy
The response to Hurricane Melissa has unfolded through strong, layered partnership between the Jamaican Church of God, Church of God Ministries, regional and international leaders.
Immediately following the storm, Jamaican Church of God leadership—under the guidance of Rev. Courtney Gordon—mobilized congregations to distribute aid through trusted church networks. Thirteen congregations served as relief distribution centers, enabling churches to care for both Church of God families and their surrounding communities.
As emergency relief transitioned into recovery, church and home reconstruction emerged as the most urgent long-term priority. Church of God Ministries Disaster Relief partnered with Jamaican leadership by providing cash-based assistance, allowing materials to be purchased locally and distributed efficiently. Initial reconstruction funds were directed toward securing roofing and other essential materials to prevent further deterioration.
Jamaica Rebuild and Restore represents the next phase of this strategy—moving from relief to sustainable recovery by:
• Raising funds for locally sourced rebuilding materials
• Pre-positioning materials before volunteer teams arrive
• Coordinating volunteer engagement that aligns with Jamaican leadership priorities
• Ensuring rebuilding efforts strengthen, rather than replace, local capacity
This strategy reflects a shared commitment to long-term, Kingdom partnership.
VISION
VISION
The vision of Jamaica Rebuild and Restore flows directly from the mission of Church of God Ministries Disaster Relief:
to proclaim and demonstrate the Good News of Jesus by empowering the people of God to collectively respond to human suffering and faithfully pursue the restoration of all that is broken in order to bring the Kingdom to life on earth as it is in Heaven.
Rebuilding church structures is about more than repairing walls and roofs. It is about:
• Restoring spaces where worship, discipleship, and pastoral care can continue
• Strengthening congregations as anchors of hope within their communities
• Walking patiently with one another toward healing—spiritually, emotionally, and physically
This project envisions a future where Jamaican congregations are not only rebuilt, but renewed in their capacity to serve, lead, and bear witness to Christ in the midst of hardship.
GLOBAL PARTNERSHIPS
GLOBAL PARTNERSHIPS
Jamaica Rebuild and Restore is rooted in a shared global response across the Church of God movement. The Caribbean-Atlantic Assembly, led by Rev. Lennox Boyce, has partnered prayerfully and financially in support of the Jamaican Church of God. Churches across the region have stood in solidarity, recognizing that disaster response and recovery are strengthened through regional and global unity. Churches and districts in the United States and Canada are also joining this partnership—through giving, prayer, and the sending of volunteer teams—to walk alongside Jamaican congregations during the rebuilding process. These partnerships are grounded in mutual respect, shared faith, and submission to Jamaican Church of God leadership, ensuring culturally appropriate and sustainable engagement.
Together, the global Church of God bears witness to a Kingdom reality in which suffering is met with compassion, isolation with solidarity, and destruction with hope.
Volunteer Resources
Volunteer Resources
Trip Dates
What are the possible dates groups can travel to Jamaica?
Below is a list of 2026 work camp dates, provided by the Jamaican leadership team. However, please contact DisasterRelief@Chog.org to confirm current availability:
- May 9-16
- May 23-30
- June 6-13
- June 20-27
- July 11-18
- July 25-August 1
- August 22-29
- September 5-12
Trip Payments
What is the trip costs and what does it include?
The total trip cost to be paid to Global Strategy is $500 per person.
- The $500 covers all on‑the‑ground expenses during the work camp period (Saturday to Saturday)—including transportation, lodging, meals, and required trip insurance.
- The $500 does NOT include airfare, or any costs incurred in Jamaica before or after meeting in Montego Bay (Saturday to Saturday).
When and where are trip payments due?
The $500 trip payment is due at least two weeks before departure to Jamaica. This deadline is VERY important because our team will need to enroll you in trip insurance and wire your group’s funds to Jamaica before you arrive.
The $500 trip payment is made when you complete the trip registration form.
Trip Insurance
Is trip insurance required?
Yes, trip insurance is required and is included in your $500 trip cost.
How do I enroll in trip insurance?
Upon completion of the trip registration, you will automatically be enrolled in trip insurance by our Global Strategy team. Please contact DisasterRelief@Chog.org with questions.
Packing
What should I bring with me to Jamaica?
Please download the following proposed packing list for a general list of items we recommend that you bring with you to Jamaica. However, we recognize that needs may vary from person to person.
Travel Safety
What are emergency phone numbers in Jamaica?
Emergencies in Jamaica (ambulance, fire, and police): 110
U.S. Embassy in Jamaica: +1 (876) 702-6000
Where can I learn more about safety and security in Jamaica?
Consult the U.S. Embassy in Jamaica website for key resources: https://jm.usembassy.gov/
Enroll in STEP
We strongly encourage each volunteer to enroll in the U.S. State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). You can do so for free here: https://mytravel.state.gov/s/step
Further Assistance
Who do I contact with additional questions?
Please contact DisasterRelief@Chog.org with any questions.
Additional FAQs
What is the primary purpose of these trips?
The purpose of these trips is to cultivate shalom alongside our brothers and sisters in Jamaica. The Hebrew word shalom, often translated as “peace,” refers to wholeness, flourishing, and being in right relationship. Accordingly, these trips focus on restoring shalom both physically—through the rebuilding of churches—and relationally, spiritually, and communally. We believe that building relationships and praying with our brothers and sisters in Jamaica is just as essential as the physical reconstruction of churches and homes. Our desire is to see God’s Kingdom come on earth as it is in heaven, and we view these trips as a meaningful way of participating in that beautiful ministry.
What are the trip dates and general itinerary?
Our goal is to mobilize 10 teams of 10 volunteers each to Jamaica between March and August 2026. Contact DisasterRelief@Chog.org for a list of available trip dates.
Trips generally run Saturday to Saturday, beginning and ending in Montego Bay, Jamaica. Your trip itinerary will likely follow a schedule similar to the one below but may vary depending on date, location, and weather:
- Saturday: Meet in Montego Bay and travel to project site (transportation provided)
- Sunday: Worship with a local Church of God congregation
- Monday–Friday: Work at project site(s)
- Saturday: Return to Montego Bay
Optional: Teams may choose to come earlier or stay later for rest days. Contact DisasterRelief@Chog.org for recommendations.
What is the cost of the trip?
Your airfare + $500 paid to Global Strategy.
The $500 includes all on‑the‑ground expenses: transportation, lodging, meals, and required trip insurance.
What are the lodging and food arrangements?
Accommodations are typically camp‑style. Men will share a common sleeping area and bathroom, and women will do the same. However, lodging may vary based on where your team is serving.
If your team arrives before Saturday morning, or departs after the Saturday return travel, you will need to book your own lodging in Montego Bay and arrange your transportation to and from the airport. Contact our team for help coordinating this.
What types of projects will volunteers work on?
Most projects involve roof repair or roof replacement. However, there may also many other opportunities to serve and connect—including painting, children’s ministry, arts ministry, or other community‑support activities. Details vary by trip date and location.
What about health precautions?
Use standard travel safety practices, stay hydrated, and protect yourself from the sun. Check with your primary care doctor prior to travel. Trip insurance is required and is included in the cost.
What forms are required to enter Jamaica?
All travelers must complete the C‑5 immigration form. This form can be completed and submitted online at:
https://www.enterjamaica.gov.jm/
What is the weather like?
Between March and August, temperatures are warm and humid, typically ranging from the mid‑70s to high‑80s Fahrenheit. Expect strong sun and occasional heavy rain.
Where will the work site be located?
The specific site varies by trip. A map and final location information will be provided to your team once logistics are confirmed.
What language is spoken in Jamaica?
English is the official language. Jamaican Patois is also widely spoken. We encourage you to learn a few phrases in Patois before traveling. Here are some videos to help you begin: https://www.youtube.com/@patwahacademy.
What money or payment methods should I bring?
U.S. dollars are accepted almost everywhere, and cash may be preferred in more rural parts of the country. You may want to notify your credit card company before traveling so your card works without issue.
Will tools be provided?
Yes. All necessary tools will be available on site.
What about cell phones and internet?
While you will likely have access to Wifi in Montego Bay, it is not guaranteed that you will have wifi at the sites where you will be working and lodging throughout the week. If you want to ensure internet and cell connection, we recommend that you:
- Check your carrier’s international daily rate, or
- Purchase an eSIM such as Airalo for data access.
What should I know about transportation?
Jamaica drives on the opposite side of the road. A local driver will be provided for team transport Saturday to Saturday. If you stay additional days, your group can hire a driver (the group covers the cost).
What type of electrical plugs does Jamaica use?
Jamaica uses the same plug type as the United States.
What preparation should I do before the trip?
Physical: Be ready for manual labor, heat, and long days.
Spiritual: Pray for your hosts, your team, and the churches you will serve.
Social: Get to know your team and those you will be traveling with.
Emotional: Being flexible is essential. Schedules and project details may shift.
What is the history of the Church of God in Jamaica?
The Church of God in Jamaica was born out of a moment of crisis and compassion. In January 1907, a massive earthquake struck Kingston, Jamaica, leaving much of the city in ruins and claiming more than 1,000 lives. Just months later, in April, The Gospel Trumpet featured a letter from Isaac DeLevante, a Jamaican Christian who described the devastation and appealed for missionary support. That summer, George and Nellie Olsen, along with their newborn baby, answered this call. They arrived in Kingston while the city still lay in rubble, sought out DeLevante, and together held an open-air service the very next day after their arrival. From here, the Jamaican Church of God grew exponentially and held its first assembly within a year. Today, the Church of God in Jamaica includes 110 congregations and over 5,000 believers. Rooted in this history of hope, this vibrant community of faith now stands ready to bear compassion and carry life in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa.
How do I sign up?
Please reach out to DisasterRelief@Chog.org to begin the conversation. Once you and your team are ready, you can then complete the trip registration form.
We look forward to walking alongside you throughout this exciting journey!
Will you join Global Strategy in walking alongside the Jamaican Church of God?
Ways to make a difference
- Online—Visit this link.
- Check—Make checks payable to “Church of God Ministries” and specify "Jamaica Rebuild and Restore - 42.30611” in the memo line.
For more information, contact Global Strategy Projects at 800.848.2464 or GSProjects@chog.org.
