Storm Response and Relief

Roofers Needed for Hurricane Melissa Relief in Jamaica

RC shares an update from the Caribbean with Steve Slepcevic, who is on the ground coordinating relief efforts, and where roofing contractors are in need.

By Steve Slepcevic, Jill Bloom, Group Publisher, Roofing Contractor, John Wyatt

When Hurricane Melissa’s 185 mph winds ripped across Jamaica, tearing roofs from hospitals, homes, and hotels, Steve Slepcevic didn’t wait for a call. The CEO of Strategic Response Partners (SRP) was already there. Two days before the storm struck, the founder of SRP arrived on the Caribbean island to help coordinate response efforts. When the skies cleared, he found himself at the heart of the disaster, leading an impromptu mission he calls “Operation One Roof, One Love.”

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Operation One Roof, One Love

Roofing contractors and materials are in need in Jamaica following the devastation of Hurricane Melissa. In this episode, Strategic Response Partners CEO Steve Slepcevic tells roofing contractors how to help

His crew helped locate a site in Black River where Samaritan’s Purse could set up a field hospital—and even helped shrink-wrap a damaged hospital roof to protect what remained.

“As soon as the storm passed, the first part was attending to medical situations,” he said. “We sent out teams to make sure critical needs were being met.”

But “Operation One Roof, One Love” is about more than construction—it’s about compassion. Many of the island’s doctors, firefighters, and hotel workers are still showing up to serve others, even while sleeping under tarps themselves.

Working out of the Ocean Coral Springs Resort near Montego Bay, Slepcevic immediately began partnering with first responders, local officials, and humanitarian groups, including Samaritan’s Purse and World Central Kitchen.

RC checked in with Slepcevic from Jamaica to learn more about the immediate needs for recovery efforts, and how roofing contractors can get involved.

To learn how you can help or volunteer with Operation One Roof: One Love, visit srp24.com or email Steve at steve@srp24.com.

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Steve Slepcevic, with over 35 years of expertise in disaster management, emergency response, and global security, is a transformational leader known for delivering rapid solutions, safeguarding critical infrastructure, and leading recovery efforts in high-risk environments.

Jill Bloom is the innovative Group Publisher of Roofing Contractor, Walls & Ceilings, Building Enclosure, Roofing Supply Pro, and the highly regarded Best of Success event. With a deep commitment to advancing the roofing, construction, and building enclosure industries, Jill oversees a robust portfolio of publications, podcasts, and events that empower professionals with knowledge, inspiration, and connections.

Her brands deliver exceptional value across multiple platforms, including:

Techos y Más, the Spanish-language newsletter of Roofing Contractor.
Safety Advisor, a newsletter focused on critical resources for jobsite safety.
Thermal Talk, a newsletter focused on insights and news for the insulation contractor.
eRock, a leading newsletter for drywall contractors.
The Enclosure Experts podcast, offering architects deep insights into building enclosure technologies.
If Walls Could Talk, a podcast dedicated to exploring trends and innovations for the wall and ceiling contractor.
The Best of Success Podcast, providing thought leadership and practical advice for roofing professionals.

Jill’s passion for professional development and fostering industry connections is exemplified by the Best of Success event, a premier gathering of contractors, suppliers, and thought leaders for unmatched education and networking.

John Wyatt is editor of Walls & Ceilings. He can be reached at wyattj@bnpmedia.com.