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 mobilize support for disaster relief efforts in the wake of Hurricane Melissa, which has caused widespread damage across the island.
Speaking during a virtual town hall meeting on Monday evening, Ambassador Anderson said the Embassy of Jamaica in Washington, D.C. has been designated as the lead mission for disaster coordination, working directly with Jamaica’s Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) to ensure accurate information and effective response measures.
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“We know that diaspora members are very concerned about what is occurring in Jamaica,” Anderson told more than 500 attendees. “There’s a certain level of nervousness among people in the diaspora, and this meeting was necessary so that we can organize ourselves to support Jamaica in what could be a significant time of need.”
To streamline coordination, the embassy has launched a dedicated email address — disasterresponse@jamaicaembassy.org — where Jamaicans abroad can send inquiries or pledge donations. A hotline is also being established for real-time updates and assistance.
The ambassador outlined that drop-off points across major diaspora hubs are being consolidated for more efficient collection and delivery of supplies to Jamaica. He stressed the importance of balanced distribution, noting that lessons from past disasters have informed a more targeted approach.
“We have to ensure that the supplies sent into Jamaica go into the right hands for distribution,” Anderson emphasized. “Those most affected will receive supplies. We don’t want an oversupply of some items and a shortage of others.”
Anderson revealed that the U.S. Department of State has already deployed a pre-team to Jamaica, with additional support teams on standby. Several countries, NGOs, and partner organizations have also pledged assistance.
To bolster the response effort, the embassy is compiling a list of 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations that diaspora members can work through to ensure accountability and transparency. Additionally, a volunteer database is being developed to identify individuals with specialized skills who may be deployed to Jamaica during the recovery phase.
“The first 72 hours after the hurricane hits will be crucial,” Anderson said. “We’ll be monitoring the situation closely to determine where help is most needed.”
While customs fees will not be universally waived, the ambassador clarified that special accommodations will be made for shipments certified as disaster relief supplies.
Ambassador Anderson closed the meeting by affirming that regular updates and future meetings will be held to keep the diaspora informed as Jamaica moves into the recovery phase.
“It is going to be one heck of a recovery effort,” he said. “We will need all hands hard at work to assist in rebuilding and supporting those most affected.”
