AFJ Activates Disaster Relief Fund as Jamaica Braces for Hurricane Melissa

American Friends of Jamaica joins forces with Global Empowerment Mission (GEM) and key local agencies to airlift critical supplies and coordinate islandwide preparedness

Hurricane Melissa makes landfall in Jamaica with 185 mph winds (Photo: Reuters)

As Jamaica endures the escalating impact of the hurricane, the American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ) has activated its Disaster Relief Fund and begun coordinating closely with trusted partners to mobilize an immediate response. The organization has partnered with Global Empowerment Mission (GEM) to airlift critical aid and supplies from Doral, Florida, to affected areas beginning Tuesday, October 28.

“Preparedness saves lives. We are working closely with our partners to ensure that Jamaica is as ready as possible before Hurricane Melissa makes landfall,” said Caron Chung, Executive Director of AFJ. “We are asking our global community to stay calm, stay informed, and check on family, neighbors, and the most vulnerable. The diaspora’s strength is in our unity and together, we will help Jamaica weather this storm.”

For more than four decades, AFJ has served as a bridge between Jamaica and its global supporters, providing emergency relief and long-term rebuilding assistance. In response to the hurricane, the organization is working with ODPEM, Food For The Poor Jamaica, and the Sanmerna Foundation to ensure coordinated relief efforts and readiness on the ground.

The AFJ Disaster Relief Fund will provide immediate support to trusted local partners following landfall to aid relief and recovery efforts. The organization is also urging all Jamaicans at home and abroad to take immediate steps to prepare. The fund has previously supported hurricane response operations across the Caribbean, including Beryl, Maria, Irma, and Dean.