International Aid Mobilizes For Devastated Jamaica After Hurricane Melissa

Hurricane Melissa, a Category 5 storm, has caused significant damage in Jamaica, with landslides, flooding, and destruction to homes and infrastructure. Various U.S.-based organizations and communities are mobilizing extensive relief efforts, including the North Side-based Brother's Brother Foundation sending thousands of hygiene kits and supplies, and the American Red Cross, World Central Kitchen, and Direct Relief providing aid on the ground. Local Jamaican consulates, churches, and nonprofit groups in cities like Philadelphia and New Haven are actively collecting donations, ranging from food and medical supplies to clothing and household goods, to support those affected. Donation sites include Besco Shippers in West Philadelphia, churches in Philadelphia and Vineland, and several locations in New Haven and Bridgeport, with coordination efforts aiming to address the greatest needs across multiple parishes in Jamaica. Community leaders emphasize the urgency of assistance given the unprecedented nature of the storm and the expected long recovery period. These combined efforts demonstrate a strong commitment from the Jamaican diaspora and supportive communities in the U.S. to provide critical relief to the island nation.