Caribbean Communities Unite for Hurricane Relief Amid Melissa's Impact

Fri Oct 31 2025 14:44:22 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Despite Hurricane Melissa missing South Florida, the Caribbean diaspora turns to action, collecting supplies for those affected throughout Jamaica, Cuba, Haiti, and the Bahamas.

Hurricane Melissa, one of the strongest hurricanes this season, spared South Florida a direct hit but has prompted a heartfelt response from the Caribbean diaspora. Communities from Miami to New York City are mobilizing to send emergency supplies to Jamaica, Cuba, Haiti, and the Bahamas. Local organizations are collecting essentials like food, water, and hygiene products, with volunteers actively engaged in rescue efforts. Notable Haitian and Jamaican leaders emphasize that the spirit of giving continues strong, echoing their commitment to support loved ones facing devastation back home.

COCONUT CREEK, Fla. — Hurricane Melissa may have evaded a direct strike on South Florida, but its impact is felt strongly within the Caribbean community. People from Miami to New York City are stepping up to support families hit hard by the storm in Jamaica, Cuba, Haiti, and the Bahamas.

In Miami-Dade, where a mix of cultures flourish, local organizations are filling warehouses with emergency supplies. Many residents share deep connections to the Caribbean, treating these islands as extensions of their own community.

Amid the chaos of natural disasters, diaspora leaders, like Carine Jocelyn from the Diaspora Community Services in Brooklyn, stress that the need for support is ever-present. Even amidst ongoing challenges back home, like gang violence in Haiti, hope remains that help will reach the most affected areas.

Organizations like Food For The Poor in Florida are actively assembling care kits, while others set up donation stations across local parks and restaurants. Supplies are desperately needed, and volunteers are keen to aid wherever they can.

Residents from diverse backgrounds—Haitians, Jamaicans, and more—are setting examples of resilience and unity, showing the power of generosity in times of need.