FERGUS – The Centre Wellington Black Committee (CWBC) is mobilizing community support for families in Jamaica impacted by Hurricane Melissa.
Accounts from Jamaica paint a picture of devastation and heartbreak as homes have been destroyed, roads rendered impassable in places and services and utilities knocked out.
“We’re calling on our neighbours to help us extend compassion and tangible support to those recovering from Hurricane Melissa,” stated CWBC chair Millicent Gordon in a press release.
“Every donation, big or small, helps restore hope and rebuild lives.”
Gordon was born in Jamaica and has received first-hand accounts from family and friends describing the devastation.
“The stories are heartbreaking,” she said. “This drive is our way of turning empathy into action and ensuring our Caribbean neighbours know they are not alone.”
The group is collecting urgently needed items to support recovery efforts and has coordinated a donation drive that runs until Dec. 13.
Requested item include:
- generators and portable solar panel generators;
- solar flood lights, solar headlamps and indoor solar lighting;
- non-perishable food, such as pre-packaged rice, legumes, canned goods etc.;
- toiletries and hygiene products;
- clothing and shoes;
- school supplies; and
- medical and first aid items (unopened and not expired).
Items can be dropped off at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church (325 St. George St. W.) in Fergus.
Drop-off hours are Tuesday to Friday from 9am to noon and 1 to 4pm. There will be special Saturday collections on Nov. 29 and Dec. 13 from 9am to noon.
All contributions will be packed and shipped to Jamaica before the end of the year, with customs fees waived for humanitarian aid.
Monetary donations are also welcome and can be sent via e-transfer to cwblackcommittee@gmail.com (reference “hurricane relief” in the transfer).
“We are honoured to be able to support the Centre Wellington community in making a meaningful difference for families in Jamaica,” said St. Andrew’s pastor Peter Bush.
For more information or to arrange alternate drop-off times, email cwblackcommittee@gmail.com or call 416-427-9660 or 519-843-3565.
