A London-based organization is seeking donations from the public to be sent to Jamaica for hurricane relief aid.
This follows the destruction of Hurricane Melissa that touched down in Jamaica on Tuesday as a Category 5. It is the strongest storm to hit the island since the first public record made in 1851.
The Jamaicans in London Ontario association is asking for various items, such as bottled water, hygiene products and toiletries, diapers, blankets, and most urgently, non-perishable food items.
“The impact has been absolutely devastating,” said Omar Smith, President of the association.
“Property has been decimated, it’s the worst thing we’ve ever seen and we need help, people are in dire states, and we need help from the community to give back.”
Residents walk through Lacovia Tombstone, Jamaica, in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2025. (Associated Press Photo/Matias Delacroix)
Severe weather caused damage to homes and hospitals, with mass flooding and knocked-down utility poles, leaving many without power.
The storm then passed through other parts of the Caribbean, both Haiti and Cuba, leaving more than two dozen dead.
Donations will be flown out from Toronto with the Jamaican Canadian Association, and “distributed across the island” with food for those in need, said Smith.
“We’re encouraging everyone, not just Jamaicans, but all members of the London community to join us in this help and this effort.”
Families in London with Jamaican background feel the impact of what’s happening, says Smith, and the effort is about “helping our brothers and sisters and neighbours.”
Donations can be dropped-off at the The Irie Market on Kipps Lane, and the W.E.A.N Community Centre on Dundas.
More information about the effort can be found through “@jamsinlondonontario” on Instagram.
