Coconut Creek Nonprofit Seeks Donations for Jamaicans Facing Hurricane Melissa
Food For The Poor, a nonprofit organization based in Coconut Creek, is actively seeking donations to support Jamaicans facing the imminent threat of Hurricane Melissa. Founded in 1982 by the late Ferdinand Mahfood, the organization has dedicated its efforts to aid communities in Jamaica and beyond.
Urgent Donations Needed for Hurricane Melissa Response
This Monday, the nonprofit called on the public for contributions to assist those affected by the hurricane. Ed Raine, the president and CEO of Food For The Poor, emphasized the organization’s long-standing commitment to Jamaica. “We have been operating in Jamaica for 40 years and currently employ 100 people who are ready to help,” he stated.
Preparations Underway in Jamaica
The organization is well-equipped with supplies, including generators and large boxes stacked at their warehouse located at 6401 Lyons Road. As the hurricane approaches, the need for support is critical, both in the short and long term.
Hurricane Melissa’s Path
Forecasters from Local 10 News Weather Authority predict that Hurricane Melissa will make landfall in Jamaica on Tuesday. Mandatory evacuations are underway in flood-prone areas. Expected impacts include:
- Cumulative rainfall of up to 40 inches in some regions
- Storm surges reaching as high as 13 feet
- Increased risk of catastrophic flooding and landslides
As a result of Melissa, three fatalities have been reported in Haiti and one in the Dominican Republic. Haiti remains under a tropical storm warning, while some areas of Cuba, the Bahamas, and the Turks and Caicos Islands are monitored for hurricane conditions.
How to Help
In preparation for the storm, a team in Jamaica has been assembling relief kits. Food For The Poor has made it easy for donors to contribute through an online catalog categorizing various donation options. Additionally, individuals interested in volunteering can register on their site.
For more information on how to donate and support the ongoing efforts, please visit Emegypt.
