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Broward County, FL - South Florida organizations are coordinating large-scale relief efforts for Jamaica following the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa, a Category 5 storm that struck the island on October 28th.
The storm brought winds exceeding 180 mph, destroying homes, damaging infrastructure, and leaving much of the country without power.
At a press conference in Lauderhill, Florida, Jamaica’s Consul General Oliver Mair urged the public to donate essential supplies.
Mair stated that recovery efforts will take time but noted improved coordination compared to past disasters.
Local officials echoed the urgency, emphasizing that donations of items like canned goods, diapers, batteries, sleeping bags, and tents are critical in the coming weeks.
Broward County Commissioner Hazelle P. Roger announced that county libraries, parks, and government buildings are serving as collection sites.
The Global Empowerment Mission confirmed that shipments of food, water, generators, and batteries have already arrived in Jamaica, with additional cargo flights and shipping containers scheduled for delivery in the coming days.
Veteran-led nonprofit Project DYNAMO has also dispatched nearly 4,000 pounds of aid, including baby formula, hygiene kits, and medical supplies, from Key West to Jamaica. Catholic Charities of Miami launched a relief fund to assist families rebuilding their lives after the storm.
Officials estimate that the full recovery will take months as power, water, and transportation systems are restored.
Relief agencies continue to assess the extent of the damage and the evolving needs of residents.