‘These people truly need help’

FORMER OLYMPIAN Sanjay Ayre was the latest Jamaican high-profile past athlete to step forward and assist residents in the western end of the island who suffered greatly from the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa.

The former quarter-miler, who now resides in Baltimore, Maryland, partnered through his non-profit organisation, Premier Health Foundation, with dancehall artiste Chad Simpson — also known as ‘Mr Goofy’ — and his Goofy Foundation to deliver much-needed support in St Elizabeth and Westmoreland.

Their first stop was St Elizabeth Technical High School (STETHS), where they met with the principal, members of the track and field coaching staff, and several athletes. The athletes received food care packages for themselves and their families, along with multi-purpose storm radios.

The team then travelled to Whitehouse, Westmoreland, visiting two shelters — Petersfield Primary School and the Lighthouse Church of God — where residents were presented with food packages and Starlink devices.

Both Ayre and Simpson said they were deeply moved to contribute after seeing firsthand, the suffering the people endured.

“Being on the ground and seeing what these people went through was very traumatic. We met people who lost everything. It was devastating to see their condition — they need help, including food and water. They have no electricity, and it will take some time before power is restored, as lines are down everywhere. I’m calling on all well-thinking Jamaicans to come out and assist, because these people truly need help,” said Ayre.

Ayre also thanked members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force.

“I would like to say a big thanks to members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force, who provided us with escorts during our trips,” said Ayre.

Simpson said he felt compelled to help.

“I really had to come on board after seeing what these people went through. I initially reached out to Sanjay and his foundation, and it was a no-brainer — we teamed up immediately to make it happen. It was a humbling experience knowing we were helping people in need,” he said.

Principal of STETHS and ISSA President Keith Wellington expressed gratitude for Ayre’s support.

“We are particularly pleased to see Sanjay here making a donation to the STETHS family to help our student-athletes and their families recover from the hurricane,” said Wellington.

“We have a very good relationship with Sanjay despite him not being a past student. He is an Olympian who has developed strong ties with STETHS, especially over the past four years through his foundation and his work with PUMA Development at his meet in Maryland. We commend him for coming to the rescue of our athletes at this time,” Wellington added.