Washington, D.C. — Jamaica’s Ambassador to the United States, Major General (Ret’d) Antony Anderson, has called on members of the Jamaican diaspora across the U.S. to unite in providing aid and relief to Jamaica following the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa.
Speaking during a virtual town hall meeting on Monday evening, Ambassador Anderson detailed the channels available for donations, coordination, and volunteer efforts to support Jamaica’s recovery efforts. He emphasized that the Embassy of Jamaica in Washington, D.C. has been appointed as the lead mission for disaster coordination.
Embassy Leads Disaster Response Coordination
Ambassador Anderson confirmed that the embassy is working closely with Jamaica’s Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) to share up-to-date information with the diaspora.
To streamline communication and contributions, a dedicated email address — disasterresponse@jamaicaembassy.org — has been established for inquiries and donations. Additionally, a hotline is being set up for real-time updates and assistance.
“We know that diaspora members are very concerned about what is occurring in Jamaica. There’s a certain level of nervousness among people in the diaspora,” Anderson said, emphasizing the need for organized and coordinated efforts.
Global and Diaspora Support Mobilizing
Anderson shared that he has been in contact with the U.S. Department of State, which has already deployed a pre-assessment team to Jamaica, with additional personnel on standby for post-hurricane operations. Several countries, NGOs, and partner organizations have also pledged their support for Jamaica’s recovery.
The ambassador noted that a “needs list” has been prepared to guide donations and will be updated as conditions on the ground evolve. To ensure efficient logistics, diaspora drop-off points will soon be announced, allowing for consolidated delivery of aid supplies.
“We have to make sure that supplies reach the right hands. In the past, we’ve seen oversupply in some areas and shortages in others. This time, we want to make sure distribution is balanced and fair,” Anderson explained.
Volunteer Database and Non-Profit Collaboration
The embassy is also compiling a list of 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations for donors who prefer to contribute through established charities. Additionally, a volunteer database is being created to register diaspora members with skills needed for on-the-ground assistance once conditions are safe.
“The first 72 hours after the hurricane hits will be crucial,” Anderson said. “We’ll be monitoring the situation closely to determine what help is needed immediately.”
Customs Fee Clarification and Future Updates
Addressing questions about customs duties, the ambassador clarified that there will not be a blanket waiver of customs fees, but special accommodations will be made for supplies verified as disaster relief.
Anderson promised continued communication with the diaspora through future town halls as the recovery effort evolves.
“It’s going to be one major recovery effort, and we’ll need all hands hard at work to assist Jamaica,” he concluded.
How Jamaicans Abroad Can Help
-
Email for Donations/Inquiries: disasterresponse@jamaicaembassy.org
-
Monitor Embassy Announcements: For official drop-off points and verified relief partners.
-
Register Skills: Diaspora members can volunteer through the embassy’s upcoming database.
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Tag: Jamaica, Gleaner, News, Hurricane Melissa, Jamaican Diaspora, Antony Anderson, Jamaica Embassy, Disaster Relief, Washington DC, ODPEM, Jamaica Recovery, US Department of State, Nonprofit Organizations, Volunteer Support, Customs Fees, Emergency Assistance, Jamaica Aid Efforts, Caribbean News, Hurricane Response, Jamaica Updates,