MIAMI — With Hurricane Melissa’s imminent arrival, a massive humanitarian response is being organized in South Florida to assist the Caribbean nations of Jamaica, Cuba, and Haiti.
The mobilization, driven by the deep cultural and familial ties that unite the region with the Caribbean, includes the opening of collection centers for goods and the launch of financial donation campaigns to mitigate the storm’s effects.
In a show of solidarity, various South Florida communities established collection points for essential supplies.
The City of Miramar is leading one of the most structured efforts, activating six locations that operate 24 hours a day, including five of its fire stations and the police headquarters.
Authorities are requesting essential items such as tarps, water, flashlights, non-perishable food, and first aid kits, but clarify that used clothing and bedding are not accepted.
In Miami-Dade County, efforts are focused on community and faith-based organizations. The Miami Gardens Police Department and Grace United Community Church are serving as collection centers.
At the logistical heart of this operation is the Doral-based nonprofit Global Empowerment Mission (GEM). Its warehouse not only receives donations but also serves as the nerve center for processing, packaging, and shipping aid on a massive scale.
GEM has already prepared thousands of boxes with food, water, and toiletries and sent team members to Jamaica to coordinate aid before the hurricane hit.
While donating goods is a tangible form of support, relief agencies emphasize that financial contributions provide greater flexibility and effectiveness.
The money reportedly allows organizations on the ground to acquire exactly what is needed, stimulates affected local economies, and eliminates the high logistical costs of transporting goods.
For example, Direct Relief, with a 100% rating on Charity Navigator, specializes in emergency medical aid and has already allocated more than $3.1 million in assistance to the Caribbean.
Food For The Poor, based in Coconut Creek, Florida, is preparing essential supplies, generators, and hygiene kits for deployment in the region.
For those wishing to focus their aid specifically on Jamaica, the American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ) organization has activated a Disaster Relief Fund.
At the local level, The Miami Foundation, through its Caribbean Strong Relief Fund, researches and distributes funds to nonprofit organizations working directly in the affected areas.
The American Red Cross also plays a critical role in providing shelter and food, and its South Florida chapters are actively raising funds to support large-scale operations.
