Among multiple aid organizations that have stepped up to help victims of devastating Hurricane Melissa in the Caribbean, the Canadian Red Cross has launched the ‘Hurricane Melissa Appeal’ to help those impacted by the storm. The organization says it is working to get help to people in affected areas as quickly as possible.
Money raised will enable the Red Cross to provide immediate relief, support recovery efforts, and resilience and preparedness and capacity strengthening activities for future events. The activities and areas impacted may evolve based on emerging needs and compounding future events.
People in Canada wishing to make a donation can do so online at redcross.ca or by calling 1-800-418-1111.
Government of Jamaica
The Government of Jamaica’s official relief website includes details of the preliminary needs list and provides a secure option to donate directly. Jamaica Tourist Board Canadian director Angella Bennett noted that it is the only official site and “any others are not legit.” Help can be offered HERE.
Sandals Foundation
The Sandals Foundation has initiated proactive relief efforts across Jamaica. Those who wish to contribute can visit www.sandalsfoundation.org.
United Way of Jamaica
The 40-year-old nonprofit has a history of supporting Jamaicans after disasters, especially the country’s farmers. Last year, United Way of Jamaica mobilized help for female farmers hit hard by Hurricane Beryl, , helping them replace farm equipment, repair roofs, and pay tuition fees for their kids right as the school year began. The Kingston-based group accepts cash donations. Go HERE.
Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association
The Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association says it has activated the CHTA Disaster Response Fund to assist those most affected by the storm. Working in collaboration with national hotel and tourism associations and regional partners, the fund will help mobilize resources to support both short- and intermediate-term recovery efforts in Jamaica as well as other destinations impacted by the storm.
“Our hearts are with the people of Jamaica and all those in the path of Hurricane Melissa,” said CHTA President Sanovnik Destang. “We stand united as a region, offering our support to communities, tourism and hospitality workers, and local businesses whose lives and livelihoods are being impacted. The Caribbean spirit is resilient, and together, we will recover, rebuild, and rise stronger.”
CHTA says it will be guided by the instructions received through the Jamaica Hotel & Tourist Association (JHTA) and its on-the-ground partners to ensure all efforts are well-coordinated and address the immediate needs established and CHTA will continue to share details of relief initiatives and additional support opportunities as information becomes available.
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