Support Hurricane Beryl relief efforts in Jamaica

For many people, Jamaica is paradise - stunning beaches, warm climate, and friendly people pull you to this island. 
 
However, when a hurricane hits this beautiful island, the aftermath can be devastating 
 
In July 2024, Hurricane Beryl swept past the island, leaving widespread property damage. 
 
Towns on Jamaica's south coast bore the brunt of the storm, experiencing significant property destruction. 
 
Many roofs were torn off, buildings were destroyed, trees were uprooted, and roads became impassable. 
 
Power outages affected 65 percent of the island's residents, and sadly, there were reports of at least two deaths. 
 
Despite the severe damage, visitors to the island can help with hurricane relief efforts in many ways. 
 
Here are seven ways you can support hurricane relief in Jamaica.
 
Donate to reputable organizations 
 
The American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ) has consistently supported development efforts on the island. 
 
After Hurricane Beryl passed Jamaica, AFJ created a fund for relief and restoration. 
 
You can directly support these efforts by donating to AFJ's official fund. 
 
Donate supplies 
 
Essential supplies like food, water, clothing, and medical items are always in high demand after a hurricane. 
 
Organize or contribute to a hurricane relief drive to ensure that the locals who were most affected by the storm have access to necessities.  
 
Volunteer your time 
 
Your efforts, whether providing on-the-ground assistance or remote support, can help rebuild communities and offer crucial relief to those affected. 
 
If you're on the island after a storm, consider spending a day assisting in the distribution of supplies to severely impacted communities. 
 
Local organizations like WATA, The Richard and Diana Stewart Foundation, S Hotels, and World Central Kitchen have been distributing supplies and supporting restoration work in affected communities across the island. 
 
The Global Empowerment Mission (GEM) is also actively involved in on-the-ground restoration and supply distribution efforts. 
 
To get involved, reach out directly to these teams to find out how you can contribute. 
 
Host fundraising events 
 
You can raise significant funds for hurricane relief. 
 
Whether it's a charity run, a bake sale, or a concert, engaging your community in these efforts can also spread awareness about the help needed on the island and encourage others to support the cause. 
 
Support long-term recovery projects 
 
The prized Holland Bamboo attraction in St. Elizabeth was heavily impacted by the passage of Hurricane Beryl. 
 
You can help restore one of Jamaica's national treasures by assisting with sourcing bamboo roots or collaborating with local organizations that can support the restoration of this natural attraction. 
 
Donate blood 
 
Blood supplies can become critically low after a disaster. 
 
Donating blood is a simple yet vital way to support hurricane relief efforts, ensuring that medical facilities can provide necessary care to those injured during the storm. 
 
Provide mental health support 
 
If you're a trained mental health professional, consider volunteering your services to help families cope with the trauma and stress caused by the disaster. 
 
Even if you're not a mental health professional, reach out to your friends and family in Jamaica to see how they're doing and how you can support their recovery. 
 
Come back to Jamaica 
 
Two days after the passage of Hurricane Beryl, the island's tourism minister announced the reopening of its two international airports and its shipping ports. 
 
Consider making Jamaica your vacation destination so that you can contribute to its continued growth and restoration.