READING Borough Council has joined community organisations in the town in launching fundraising efforts to support those in Jamaica in the wake of Hurricane Melissa.
The initiative is being supported by the Mayor of Reading, Councillor Alice Mpofu-Coles, in partnership with The Jamaica Society & Friends Reading (TJS&FR), local community organisations, and the Caribbean Associations Group.
It comes after Melissa, the third most intense Atlantic hurricane ever recorded, made landfall in Jamaica late last month, destroying homes and key infrastructure across the country.
Jamaican prime Minister Andrew Holness said that the cyclone, the worst ever to hit the country, had caused damage costing the equivalent of around 30% of Jamaica’s GDP (gross domestic product) from last year.
Estimated damages of between six and seven billion were described as “conservative”, and the short-term economic output of the country is expected to decline by up 13%.
As of last week, at least 83 deaths have been attributed to the hurricane.
The fundraiser here in Reading is encouraging contributions in accordance with a list of preliminary needs put forward by the Jamaican government.
This includes items such as bedding, cots, shelters, lanterns/flashlights, storage and water containers, water provisions, tools for clearing and excavation, safety equipment, health provisions, and food.
Donations should be packaged and labelled in line with customs and shipping regulations from the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) in Jamaica.
Blankets should be boxed separately and clearly labelled; toiletries should also be boxed separately and clearly labelled; tinned and packet food must be in date.
The Mayor of Reading, Councillor Alice Mpofu-Coles, said: “The people of Jamaica are facing unimaginable hardship following the destruction caused by Hurricane Melissa.
“Reading has a proud and longstanding connection with Jamaica, and I know our residents will once again step forward with generosity and compassion to help those in need.
“Every donation, no matter how small, will make a difference.”
Annette Levy, the Chairperson from the Jamaica Society and Friends Reading, said: “The Jamaica Society and Friends Reading extend heartfelt thanks for your expressions of concern and solidarity during this difficult time, and we thank for your generosity and continued support.”
Jeff Jones, the Chairperson from The Caribbean Associations Group, said: “The Caribbean Associations Group is committed to standing with the Jamaica Society and Friends Reading, the wider Caribbean community, and the Mayor of Reading, along with Reading Borough Council, in supporting this appeal in aid of the recovery and rebuilding process.
“Our heartfelt sympathy and prayers are with all affected by Hurricane Melissa.”
Full details are available via: supportjamaica.gov.jm
Monetary donations can be made directly through the official Support Jamaica website: supportjamaica.gov.jm
Drop-off points for donated goods are open at the following times:
Norcot Mission Church (Brockley Close, Tilehurst)
– Thursday 13th & 20th November: 11:30am–1:30pm
– Friday 14th & 21st November: 10:30am–12:30pm
Church of God of Prophecy, Oxford Road
– Wednesday 12th & 19th November: 2pm–4pm
The Globe, Portman Road
– Tuesday to Friday, 11th–14th November: 10am–4pm
– Tuesday to Friday, 18th–21st November: 10am–4pm
