Samaritan’s Purse Aids Jamaica After Hurricane Melissa’s Category 5 Devastation

Samaritan’s Purse has initiated a significant emergency response following the catastrophic impact of Hurricane Melissa, which struck Jamaica with devastating force. The storm, classified as a Category 5 hurricane, made landfall on October 28, 2025, bringing winds that surpassed 185 mph.

Samaritan’s Purse Response

In less than 48 hours after the hurricane’s landfall, the North Carolina-based organization airlifted over 38,000 pounds of emergency supplies to the island. This operation involved the deployment of their Disaster Assistance Response Team to Kingston, where they began distributing essential aid.

Statements from Leadership

Franklin Graham, president of Samaritan’s Purse, highlighted the severity of the situation: “Hurricane Melissa has pummeled Jamaica, leaving tens of thousands of families in urgent need of help.” He emphasized the organization’s commitment to serving affected communities, reassuring them of divine support.

Emergency Aid Details

• The first cargo flight, a B757, delivered 1,500 family kits, which included:
• Tarps
• Ropes
• Solar lights
• Water jerry cans and filters
• A second flight is set to carry two community water filtration systems, capable of providing clean water for 10,000 people daily.

Edward Graham, the organization’s chief operating officer, stated that preparations were made before the hurricane struck. “Our teams were standing by, closely coordinating with local partners in Jamaica to ensure timely help,” he noted.

Impact and Needs

The hurricane caused significant infrastructure damage. Power outages, communication failures, and widespread flooding affected southern parishes of the island. Many families lost their homes and faced dire conditions, prompting a coordinated response with Jamaica’s Ministry of Health and local churches.

Dave Holzhauer, overseeing disaster response in Jamaica, described the aftermath as heartbreaking. “Hospitals, schools, and homes have been wiped out,” he said. “The need for hope and practical support is overwhelming.”

Community Challenges

Church partner Vincent Rose reported that many communities remain isolated without power or communication, complicating relief efforts. “We are trying to clear debris to aid emergency restoration,” he said, while highlighting personal losses from the storm.

Spiritual Support Initiatives

Samaritan’s Purse has also deployed trained chaplains to provide emotional and spiritual care alongside their physical aid efforts. Franklin Graham affirmed the organization’s mission: “While we address physical needs, we also want to share the hope of Jesus Christ with those affected.”

Looking Forward

As recovery efforts continue, additional relief flights are planned. Samaritan’s Purse, which has assisted in disaster responses since 1970, encourages continued prayers and support for those impacted by Hurricane Melissa. For more details on their initiatives, visit Emegypt’s website.