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As a Category 5 storm, Hurricane Melissa left a trail of destruction across Jamaica. The worst hurricane to hit the island made landfall on October 28, causing devastating flooding, landslides, power outages and food shortages. And the effects are expected to last into the coming months.
Travel to the island may be on pause, but a mix of aid groups and nonprofits have stepped up, and several popular hotels are asking for donations to help the community. This is how you can provide your support.
Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management
As Jamaica’s government agency to respond to natural disasters, this group works in partnership with local authorities and international aid partners, and has hit the ground running after Hurricane Melissa. Financial donations help provide food, shelter, medical aid and more to families affected by the storm. The agency also compiles a preliminary list of needs with some of the most necessary items.
Catholic Help Services
For 80 years, this organization has provided emergency assistance to communities around the world. Money raised will go towards the group’s Latin America and Caribbean Emergency Fund to provide clean water, emergency shelter and essential supplies in Jamaica and Haiti.
World Central Kitchen
Chef and founder José Andrés’ nonprofit organization travels to disaster-affected communities around the world and is already mobilizing in Jamaica. The group serves comfort food, like flaky burgers, from its sister restaurant, Mother’s, and delivers thousands of meals to affected families.
Jamaican American Friends
With roots in Jamaica and founded in 1982, this organization’s Disaster Relief Fund provides emergency relief and recovery support throughout the island. In response to Hurricane Melissa, the group has announced a $1 million matching fund. The group is working to distribute water, food and hygiene supplies, as well as support shelters and local response teams.
Jamaica United Way
United Way of Jamaica has been active for 40 years, working to fund training, healthcare, education and more. After the hurricane, the organization created project 40 with the goal of raising $40 million for recovery. The group is working to “help our breadbasket parishes” and support local farmers who lost their crops and livelihoods.
Corps of Mercy
This organization works around the world responding to natural disasters and communities in need. To help victims of Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica, the group is willing to provide clean water, food, solar energy and emergency supplies to families.
Hope project
As a global health and humanitarian organization working on five continents, Project Hope partners with local healthcare workers to provide support. In Jamaica, the group said it is coordinating with local officials and conducting rapid needs assessments, and has prepared hygiene kits and medical supplies.
The Tryall Fund
Connected to the luxury Montego Bay resort, The Tryall Club, this fund provides vital support and resources to the “men and women who are the heart and soul” of the property. While the resort is temporarily closed while they conduct damage assessments, the hotels said many former guests have asked how they could help. Donations will go towards supporting staff and the local community.
Rockhouse Foundation
Dedicated to modernizing schools in western Jamaica, the Rockhouse Foundation is now working to rebuild the Sav Inclusive School, where the roof was ripped off, classrooms were flooded, and therapy rooms and classroom materials were destroyed. The organization, backed by both the Rockhouse Hotel and Skylark Negril Beach Resort, hopes to raise $250,000 through a GoFundMe campaign to help the school’s families, teachers and students get back on their feet.
Sandals Foundation
As the non-profit arm of Sandals Resorts International, the Sandals Foundation launched a special Relief Mission while partnering with local authorities and emergency agencies. The company, which has several all-inclusive properties in Jamaica, said 100 percent of every dollar donated will go directly to relief efforts. When making a donation, you can select “Relief Mission” from the drop-down menu.
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