Manatee County Shares Guidance for Residents Wishing to Support Jamaica Hurricane Relief Efforts

MANATEE COUNTY — Manatee County residents are expressing an outpouring of compassion and concern for those impacted by the recent hurricane in Jamaica. In response to numerous inquiries, Manatee County officials are sharing guidance to help those who want to provide the most effective support.

While Manatee County is not serving as a collection hub for donations, residents who wish to help can make the greatest impact by supporting reputable organizations that are already providing direct relief on the ground.

Individuals wishing to support the response can donate in several ways:

• Jamaica Red Cross: Donations can be made directly through the Jamaica Red Cross website to support local recovery and relief operations.
• American Red Cross: Financial contributions made through the American Red Cross could be used to help fund emergency shelter, food, and aid distribution in Jamaica and other affected Caribbean nations.
• International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC): The IFRC coordinates international humanitarian assistance and ensures aid reaches those who need it most.
• American Friends of Jamaica: This organization also operates a Disaster Relief Fund dedicated to helping Jamaican communities recover from natural disasters.
• GiveDirectly: This nonprofit lets donors send money directly to the world's poorest households. In doing so, they aim to accelerate the end of extreme poverty globally.
• Project HOPE: Project HOPE is on the ground in the wake of Hurricane Melissa, assessing the greatest needs. 

Gathering specific supplies is not recommended due to the logistical challenge of getting those supplies to those in need.  The teams on the ground in Jamaica will provide guidance through trusted partners for how and if those supplies are needed.

“Our community’s generosity is one of its greatest strengths,” said Manatee County Emergency Management Deputy Chief Joel Richmond. “By connecting with established relief organizations, residents can ensure their kindness reaches those who need it most.”