Hurricane Melissa has made landfall in Jamaica as a Category 5 storm, marking what is forecasted to be a devastating weather event, the worst in the country’s history.
The storm is expected to bring catastrophic winds and the potential for extraordinary damage across the Caribbean island nation.
With the recovery effort predicted to be daunting, resource-draining, and time-consuming, there are several ways to help as Jamaica works to get back on its feet in the coming weeks and months.
Read on to see which organizations are ready to assist Jamaica as it recovers in the wake of Hurricane Melissa.
The American Red Cross
The American Red Cross Disaster Relief program works to respond to people affected by disasters, including hurricanes, around the world, providing food, shelter and support from trained volunteers.
“As Melissa threatens, the Red Cross societies on the islands and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) are fully operational, working together to respond across the potentially affected countries,” the Red Cross website reads.
The humanitarian organization is currently accepting donations for disaster relief.
Click here to learn more.
World Central Kitchen
World Central Kitchen, a nonprofit founded by chef and humanitarian José Andrés, mobilizes after disaster strikes to provide food and water for first responders and victims in the affected areas.
“We’re working with local partners to begin serving meals as quickly as possible to families impacted by the storm,” World Central Kitchen wrote in a Monday announcement, preparing for the storm.
World Central Kitchen is currently accepting donations, in order to provide meals for those in need.
Click here to learn more.
American Friends of Jamaica
The American Friends of Jamaica Disaster Relief Fund provides “critical support when natural or humanitarian disasters impact communities across Jamaica,” according to its website.
The organization posted on social media prior to Melissa’s landfall, writing, “AFJ stands with Jamaica as Hurricane Melissa makes landfall. We are in active coordination with our partners — including NCB Foundation, Food for the Poor, GEM and Sanmerna Foundation to ensure rapid response and support. Stay informed, stay safe, and follow trusted updates.”
American Friends of Jamaica is currently seeking donations for its Disaster Relief Fund.
Click here to learn more.
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