In a commendable initiative to aid employees impacted by Hurricane Melissa, Couples Resorts has reopened its doors to guests as of December 1, through its non-profit organization, the Issa Trust Foundation. This reopening marks a significant step forward in the recovery efforts for those affected by the hurricane.
Leading the charge in this rebuilding mission is contractor Dirk Bartolazzi from Bartolazzi Homes in Wisconsin, along with a dedicated team of volunteer construction workers. Last week, this team was on-site in Westmoreland, diligently working to repair and reconstruct the homes of several employees from Couples Negril and Couples Swept Away, many of whom experienced severe losses due to the hurricane.
In addition to the hands-on rebuilding efforts, the Issa Trust Foundation will provide essential building supplies to assist team members in their home repairs. The volunteer team has plans to return in the new year to continue their critical work, ensuring that those impacted receive ongoing support.
Paul Issa, Chairman of the Issa Trust Foundation, emphasized the foundation’s commitment to helping the local community: “The Issa Trust Foundation—whose focus has always been pediatric healthcare—made the decision, after Hurricane Melissa, to prioritize the rebuilding of damaged and destroyed homes belonging to our Couples Resorts staff. Thanks to the generosity of our many repeat guests and other donors, we are now in the process of doing that.”
Dirk Bartolazzi highlighted the urgency of the situation, stating, “When a family loses their home, time matters. Our goal was simple: move quickly, work safely, and give families back a place they can once again call home. Being able to repair the damage and restore a home right before their eyes, and seeing the hope and joy it brings, is why we do this work.”
In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, Couples Resorts has also mobilized an extensive relief and recovery effort aimed at supporting affected team members and the surrounding communities. Immediate assistance included the distribution of care packages containing food, water, batteries, and other essentials, as well as providing temporary housing for over 100 employees who lost their homes.
Through these efforts, Couples Resorts and the Issa Trust Foundation are not only restoring homes but also reinforcing the community’s resilience and hope for the future.
