In the aftermath of the widespread devastation caused by the Category 5 hurricane, Melissa, in the western region of Jamaica last week, various organizations in Hamilton are coming together to offer assistance. The Jamaica Foundation of Hamilton, the Afro-Canadian Caribbean Association, and Hamilton Caribbean Women’s Group have collaborated to coordinate aid for the island under the initiative named Hamilton Loves Jamaica.
Charlton Hamilton, a long-time resident of Hamilton originally from Jamaica, expressed his astonishment at the severity of the damage inflicted on his homeland by the hurricane. He recalled experiencing a hurricane in 1951 but emphasized that the impact of Hurricane Melissa far surpasses anything he had witnessed before.
Hamilton and other community members launched the relief campaign at City Hall, emphasizing the importance of collective action during times of crisis. Michelle Shivbarran, the president of the Hamilton Caribbean Women’s Group, highlighted the significance of organizations uniting their efforts to maximize their impact and efficiency.
Hurricane Melissa struck Jamaica on October 28, causing extensive damage in Black River, St. Elizabeth, where up to 90% of structures were left without roofs. The hurricane also led to the tragic loss of at least 19 lives in Jamaica.
The relief initiative is appealing for both monetary contributions and essential items. Shivbarran underscored the specific needs of women, stressing the importance of feminine hygiene products and childcare essentials to alleviate the burdens faced by female caregivers.
Donations are being collected at the ACCA Community Centre, including items such as blankets, ropes, flashlights, water containers, personal hygiene products, and first aid supplies. Additionally, Hamilton Loves Jamaica will host two fundraising events: a Benefit Concert for Jamaica Disaster Relief on Saturday and a fundraising Fabulicious festival on November 16 at the ACCA Community Centre.
The organizations are also selling merchandise under the Hamilton Loves Jamaica brand to raise funds for Jamaica’s Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management. Hamilton, a dedicated member of ACCA, emphasized the community’s responsibility to support one another during times of crisis and expressed his commitment to aiding those in need.