Rohan Thompson, a temporary farm worker from Jamaica’s Clarendon parish, was in St. Catharines, Ont., observing the impact of the recent Category 5 hurricane that struck his homeland. Thompson, who has been in Canada since April and is set to return home late November or early December, expressed deep distress over the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica.
The hurricane made landfall near New Hope in St. Elizabeth, Jamaica’s key agricultural region, with winds reaching 297 km/h. The storm severely damaged Black River, leaving up to 90% of structures without roofs and causing widespread destruction. Melissa, one of the most powerful Atlantic hurricanes, resulted in 19 fatalities in Jamaica and 31 in Haiti.
Thompson, like many Jamaican seasonal workers in the Niagara region, is anxious about the well-being of his loved ones back home. Dale Merrill, a resident of Niagara-on-the-Lake with ties to Montego Bay, emphasized the importance of supporting Jamaican families affected by the storm.
Zepheniah James, a calypsonian from Montego Bay now residing in Niagara Falls, vividly recalled the impact of Hurricane Gilbert in 1988 and empathized with those enduring the aftermath of Melissa. He highlighted the urgent need for assistance for Jamaicans struggling to cope with the disaster.
In response to the crisis, Niagara-on-the-Lake resident Jane Andres initiated efforts to gather donations for Jamaican seasonal farmers in need of disaster relief supplies. She sought support in providing essential items for the affected communities, emphasizing the importance of aiding those impacted by the hurricane.
Air Canada’s response to the situation indicated logistical challenges in adjusting baggage policies for relief efforts to Jamaica. The airline recommended supporting established relief organizations to effectively assist affected communities.
Efforts to assist Jamaica post-hurricane were underscored by the Jamaica Foundation of Hamilton, cautioning against potential scams and advising individuals to verify donation channels through official sources. The Jamaican government established a dedicated website for support initiatives, offering guidance on how to contribute effectively.
