New Zealand Red Cross Launches Appeal Supporting People Affected By Hurricane Melissa

New Zealand Red Cross has launched the Hurricane Melissa Emergency Appeal to support people affected following the landfall of the Category 5 storm that struck Jamaica, Haiti and other parts of the Caribbean region, causing catastrophic damage and widespread humanitarian need.

Lives have been lost, people remain missing, and thousands have been displaced after homes and infrastructure were destroyed by sustained winds exceeding 280 km/h and heavy flooding.

Reports estimate that hundreds of thousands of people are without power, hospitals and schools are damaged, and thousands remain displaced. The World Meteorological Organization has described Melissa as the worst storm ever recorded to hit Jamaica.

The Jamaica Red Cross, supported by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) has mobilised hundreds of volunteers to distribute food, clean water and hygiene kits, manage shelters and provide first aid and medical care to those affected.

“Our thoughts are with everyone affected by Hurricane Melissa,” says Sarah Stuart-Black, Secretary General of New Zealand Red Cross. 

“We’ve seen again how quickly lives can be upended by disasters of this scale. Through this appeal, New Zealanders can help ensure vital aid reaches those who need it most – clean water, shelter and medical care.”

Funds raised through the Hurricane Melissa Emergency Appeal will help support the immediate Red Cross response in Jamaica and across the Caribbean enabling local teams to continue providing life-saving assistance, early-recovery and ongoing support on their long journey to recovery.

Every donation makes a difference for communities beginning the long journey to rebuild after this disaster.

How to help

Donations can be made via the New Zealand Red Cross website: www.redcross.org.nz/hurricane

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