A number of hotels in Jamaica have launched major efforts to help the country in its fight against the coronavirus pandemic. 

The Jamaica Ministry of Tourism is calling it “generous and courageous efforts of Jamaican properties in the collective fight to keep the country safe and healthy.”

That’s led by Jakes Treasure Beach, which is offering its 65 rooms for either quarantine or isolation purposes for coronavirus patients. 

The property is allowing Jamiaca’s Ministry of Health and Wellness to access its entire property, something owner Jason Hanzell said was “the right thing to do.”

Sandals Resorts International has offered Jamaica’s government the Carlisle Inn, the 52-room hotel in Montego Bay, to be used as an incubation center and helped to finance 40 ventilators for treatment of coronavirus patients. 

The company has also chosen not to lay off its permanent workers, instead paying 40 percent of their basic salaries and retaining benefits like health insurance and paid vacation. 

Riu Hotels is giving donations of food to Fresh Bread Ministries International, which is delivering care packages to communities in need and organizations like boys’ homes, shut-ins and infirmaries. 

Round Hill in Montego Bay has partnered with Hanover Charities to accept donations for the resort’s staff during this “difficult time.”

And the Bluefields Bay Villas has announced that its owners have forgone their own salaries and are providing stipends for team members 55 and older. 

— CJ