Caribbean Diaspora Unites for Hurricane Melissa Relief Efforts

Fri Oct 31 2025 19:59:47 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

South Florida's Caribbean communities rally to support those affected by Hurricane Melissa with donations and aid for resettlement.

Following Hurricane Melissa, the Caribbean diaspora across South Florida and New York is mobilizing relief efforts for affected communities in Jamaica, Cuba, Haiti, and the Bahamas. Volunteers are working tirelessly to gather emergency supplies, while organizations urge monetary donations to ensure aid effectiveness. Local leaders emphasize the strength and resilience of Caribbean culture, as they prepare to support their homelands in the aftermath of the disaster.

COCONUT CREEK, Fla. — While South Florida narrowly avoided the brunt of Hurricane Melissa, the impact of the storm reverberates deeply within the Caribbean diaspora settled in the region. Communities from Miami to New York are converting their sorrow into action, assembling warehouses filled with essential supplies destined for Jamaica, Cuba, Haiti, and the Bahamas—areas severely affected by one of the strongest Atlantic hurricanes in history.

Miami, often referred to as the unofficial capital of Latin America, is densely populated with immigrants whose roots run deeply into Caribbean culture, making its communities feel inherently connected to their homelands. The city boasts significant populations of foreign-born Cubans and Jamaicans, according to U.S. Census data, highlighting its role as a cultural melting pot.

For many in the diaspora, ‘donation fatigue’ doesn’t apply

Amid ongoing crises, Haitian Americans especially resonate with the plight of their homeland. Carine Jocelyn, CEO of Brooklyn-based Diaspora Community Services, emphasizes that “donation fatigue” is a sentiment that doesn’t apply to Haiti. Despite formidable barriers such as gang violence impacting logistics, initiatives to send verified aid through trusted nonprofits continue.

Experts recommend that cash donations are the most effective way to provide assistance, advising donors to vet charities using reliable platforms to ensure contributions reach those in dire need.

Eugene Lapaine, heading a rescue mission in Petit-Goâve, Hati, reports that many are seeking shelter from ongoing disruptions. “We are doing our best as a community to help each other,” he shared.

‘We are ready to help’

In Coconut Creek, Florida, volunteers with the hunger relief organization Food For The Poor are busy assembling emergency care kits, planning to dispatch food and hygiene products for those in need. Susan James-Casserly, a Jamaican-American and a veteran of these relief efforts, shares her willingness to return home to lend assistance directly, even as the community rebuilds from previous hurricanes.

Kivette Silvera witnessed the hurricane from the ground level and described the devastation, “Words can’t express what they’re going through right now. It’s devastating.” Meanwhile, corporate attorney Marlon Hill emphasizes the personal connection he feels as he mobilizes support for those affected, reflecting a shared identity that strengthens their collective resolve to assist.

Donation sites pop up at fire stations, parks, local restaurants

The Miramar suburb in Broward County is taking action, with city leaders organizing collection efforts for necessary supplies. Residents are encouraged to donate items at accessible locations such as fire departments and local restaurants, showcasing a community that understands the gravity of such disasters.

In nearby Cooper City, Brittany and Dwayne Wolfe utilize their home to collect diapers and critical supplies for those impacted. With many volunteers having ties to Jamaica, this initiative reflects the broader responsibility felt by the diaspora to respond to emergencies affecting their homeland.

“I truly feel that a lot of folks that live in South Florida can really relate, because we’re so close,” Dwayne notes as they prepare to deliver contributions to Jamaica.

In these moments, the Caribbean community demonstrates a commitment to cultural solidarity, addressing their shared challenges while fostering resilience within their affected home countries. This mobilization, amidst the backdrop of disaster, showcases the indomitable spirit that characterizes the Caribbean diaspora.