The recent revelations published in The Gleaner regarding the handling of donations intended for Hurricane Melissa victims should concern everyone who contributed, volunteered, or prayed for families affected by the disaster.

At a time when thousands of citizens remain displaced, struggling to rebuild homes, farms, and livelihoods, it is deeply troubling that such a small percentage of the donated funds have reportedly been spent months after the hurricane devastated sections of the island.

When people give during times of crisis, they do so with the expectation that the money will quickly reach those in desperate need. Any delay, uncertainty, or lack of transparency surrounding the use of these funds damages public trust and raises serious concerns about accountability within state agencies responsible for disaster relief.