Lawsons steps in to Jamaica with hurricane aid

Independent family-owned builders merchant group Lawsons has donated materials to help people in Jamaica whose homes and livelihoods were destroyed by a hurricane.

Hurricane Melissa wreaked devastation across Jamaica from 21^st October to November 4^th 2025.  The CEO of Trizone Electrical Services Ltd, Tazio Heath, is a long-term contractor to Lawsons Group, and was in Jamaica when the hurricane struck.  He said: “The power of the hurricane was a humbling and frightening experience.  Emerging from shelter the next morning I saw the devastation, homes were collapsed, no power and the wreckage meant it was difficult to get aid to those who needed it most. It was then I knew I had to try and help”.

Simon Lawson, Chairman Lawsons Group said: “As soon as Taz called me, I asked what do you need? We talked and then I reached out to our branches and our suppliers and was amazed by the response.  Within two weeks we had commitments for over 19 tonnes of materials required to build emergency shelters:  posts, tarpaulins, doors, carcassing, tools and fixings”.

Zane Bonnin, assistant branch manager Lawsons Colney, requisitioned a lorry and the relief project started in earnest.  On January 14^th, Heath and Lawson, aided by friends and colleagues, oversaw the loading of materials ready for the journey by sea to Jamaica later in the month.  Heath will meet the ship when it docks and then personally delivery the materials to communities in need of shelters.

He said: “I have known Simon and Lawsons for over a decade and was aware that they had a strong community and charity ethic.  However, the speed and effectiveness of their response has been astounding.  Nothing was questioned, help was immediately offered and actioned upon”.