Empowering Jamaica: Tampa's United Effort to Deliver Essential Supplies

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In Tampa, Florida, community groups are mobilizing to collect essential items for Jamaica, where residents are grappling with the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa.

“We consider ourselves one family, and witnessing such devastation is truly heart-wrenching,” expressed Evie Larmond-Louden, a dedicated volunteer and leader with Tampa CARES.

A significant number of over 300 Americans have been evacuated from Jamaica to Tampa.

The initiative is a collaborative effort by various local Caribbean aid organizations who unite to provide assistance during crises, both domestically and abroad.

The coalition is currently collecting non-perishable food, hygiene supplies, and other crucial emergency items to aid those affected.

They have a large list of items they’re hoping people will donate listed online.

Volunteers said they hope it’s enough to help people get back on their feet, but with the level of devastation, other groups have also stepped up.

“Helping people when they feel helpless is a big deal,” said Crystal Casey, operating director for Grey Bull Rescue.

Grey Bull Rescue and One Mission have teamed together to further their efforts. They’re using some of the supplies they had saved for Florida hurricanes to help out. They’re asking for donations to fill in the gaps.

“We’re fortunate enough to have had a real small hurricane, light hurricane season here in Florida, so it’s up to us to go help others, as many of them helped us over the years,” said CJ McCormick, logistics director for One Mission Disaster Response.

Tampa CARES is asking for people to drop off donations at the Jerk Hut at 1241 E. Fowler Rd.