Hurricane Melissa Devastates Jamaica Killing 28, Prompting Widespread Relief Efforts

Hurricane Melissa, one of the strongest Atlantic hurricanes on record, has caused widespread devastation in Jamaica, leading to at least 28 deaths and the destruction of entire communities, with many areas still isolated and lacking basic necessities such as electricity, water, and food. Relief efforts are underway from various organizations and communities worldwide, including a Jamaican-born bar owner in Sheffield collecting supplies, Mercy Chefs providing meals and groceries in Jamaica's hardest-hit regions, a northern Michigan church organizing humanitarian aid trips to Cuba, and Food for the Poor coordinating shipments of food and hygiene products from Florida to affected families. These efforts emphasize the critical need for non-perishable food, personal hygiene items, and baby supplies, while highlighting the ongoing challenges in accessing and delivering aid due to damaged infrastructure and roadblocks. Survivors are experiencing trauma and shock, with relief workers noting the need for continued support to help communities recover. The combined global response reflects a concerted effort to bring hope and essential resources to those impacted by the hurricane's catastrophic effects.