TORONTO — Canadian travel agents across the country have rallied to support Jamaica’s recovery following Hurricane Melissa, helping generate $210,000 in aid through a Sunwing Vacations initiative.
Sunwing Vacations thanked agents for driving bookings during a two-week campaign from Dec. 1 to 14, during which the tour operator pledged to donate $100 to GlobalMedic for every Jamaica vacation booked. The funds will support communities impacted by the hurricane, while reinforcing tourism’s role in economic recovery.
“We are humbled that our partners remain confident in Jamaica’s ability to build back, and this reinforces the fact that Jamaica is open for business, and we are ready to welcome our Canadian visitors,” said Angella Bennett, Regional Director for Canada at the Jamaica Tourist Board.
According to Sunwing, agents delivered a notable increase in Jamaica bookings during the campaign, reflecting both client confidence and a desire to support local communities.
“This initiative truly demonstrates the power of collaboration. Our travel agents across Canada came together not just to support their clients, but to make a real difference in the communities affected by Hurricane Melissa,” said Danya Greenless, Manager, Partner Development, Product. “Seeing so many bookings translate directly into aid for families in Jamaica is inspiring, and it reinforces our belief that travel can bring hope and healing to those who need it most.”
Greenless noted that Canadians are eager to return to Jamaica not only for its natural beauty and warm hospitality, but also because they want to play a role in supporting local communities. “Travel can be a powerful force for good, and this initiative gave our clients an opportunity to make a meaningful impact while planning their vacation.”
Beyond fundraising, employees from the WestJet Group, including Sunwing Vacations team members, volunteered with GlobalMedic to pack more than 1,630 Emergency Food Kits and Family Kits at GlobalMedic’s headquarters on Nov. 6 and Dec. 2, 2025. The supplies were transported via WestJet Cargo and distributed to families in hurricane-affected regions.
“Support from partners like Sunwing Vacations, the WestJet Group, and Canada’s travel agent community allows us to respond swiftly and effectively in times of crisis. These donations translate directly into life-saving aid for families in Jamaica who are working to rebuild after Hurricane Melissa,” said Rahul Singh, the Canadian paramedic and founder of GlobalMedic.
Lead image caption: Marina Piccioni, Gift Card Program Director, Sunwing Vacations Group; Rahul Singh, Canadian paramedic and Founder of GlobalMedic; and Danya Greenless, Manager, Partner Development – Product, Sunwing Vacations Group
