Earlier this month, in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, communities across western Jamaica were left grappling with severe flooding, widespread damage, and the difficult early stages of recovery. Families were displaced, essential infrastructure was disrupted, and entire neighborhoods were overwhelmed by rising waters. 

Under the direction of the Jamaica Defence Force, the Burnaby Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) team worked in some of the hardest-hit regions, conducting search operations, welfare checks, and humanitarian assistance for communities struggling in the storm’s aftermath. Their presence brought relief, reassurance, and vital support to families navigating immense hardship.

Pacific Blue Cross is proud to provide continuing support to the Burnaby USAR team, by providing free travel insurance for humanitarian deployments, including their recent mission to Jamaica. This support helps ensure their members can deploy rapidly and safely when crises strike. 

“We are honoured to support local organizations in BC doing incredible work within their communities and beyond,” says Adrian Bois, Senior Vice President & Chief Individual Products Officer. “By easing one aspect of logistical challenge for Burnaby USAR, we hoped to enable these dedicated volunteers to focus fully on assisting those who need their help.”

Damaged roads, unreliable transportation, and limited access to food and clean water made daily operations demanding. Despite the obstacles, the team remained steadfast, adaptable, and safe, with no injuries or health issues reported.