Like many, we watched on helplessly as Hurricane Melissa ripped through Jamaica and other Caribbean islands. Our hearts broke as we saw the devastation left behind.
As a Jamaican-led organisation, we’re grateful to everyone who reached out to ask about the safety of our founder’s family on the island. So we’d like to share here what we – and Southampton’s Caribbean Association (SoCA) – are advising Southampton residents who’ve asked how they can support.
To donate money or find out how else you can help Jamaica recover and rebuild, go to the government’s official Support Jamaica website https://supportjamaica.gov.jm
Since the disaster, there has been a rush of fake websites set up to dupe supporters. So, stick to Jamaica’s official site – and, of course, to other reputable disaster response and fundraising organisations.
On the Support Jamaica website, as well as how to donate safely, you’ll also find a list of relief items that the country needs. It’s useful to note that this Needs List is updated as and when necessary.
Got relief items to donate?
📍 The drop-off point is the New Testament Church of God Southampton on Ivy Road
Still unable to contact loved ones?
📞 If you haven’t been able to contact loved ones, you can report missing people using Support Jamaica’s website.
🚨 For regular news and updates, directly from Jamaica, we’re following (on Instagram):
@andrewholnessjm Hon. Andrew Holness, Prime Minister of Jamaica
@odpem the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management