Jamaica’s Ministry of Tourism Provides List of Trusted Charities for Hurricane Relief

Jamaica’s Ministry of Tourism, along with the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM), has gathered a list of trusted Canadian and US charities that have committed to supporting relief efforts in Jamaica, targeting the areas most impacted by Hurricane Melissa. 

The Ministry says that supporting these organizations is critical in helping to rebuild vital infrastructure, restore local livelihoods, and reignite Jamaica’s world-renowned tourism sector.

“Jamaicans remain positive and resilient through these challenging times,” said Honourable Edmund Bartlett, Minister of Tourism for Jamaica.

“With the generous support of global charities and our partners, we will be able to provide the relief support needed for Jamaicans including our workers and to help the sector be ready to welcome visitors from around the world by December 15, 2025.’’

Supporting the People Who Make Jamaica Unique

To streamline relief efforts with transparency and accountability, Jamaica’s Ministry of Tourism is working with several reputable charitable organizations:

• Food for the Poor Canada: Gives hope and relief to families affected by Hurricane Melissa.

• Sandals Foundation: Supporting hurricane relief efforts across Jamaica and the wider Caribbean.

• Helping Hands Jamaica Foundation and Food for the Poor Canada: Facilitating donor-advised funds for rebuilding efforts. 

• Breds Treasure Beach Foundation: Located in an area of acute need, affiliated with Friends of Jamaica.

• Hanover Charities: Providing crucial aid to those affected in the western region of Jamaica.

• Rockhouse Foundation: Supporting affected communities with targeted relief projects.

• Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association Education Foundation.

To ensure contributions specifically support tourism-related recovery, donors are asked to designate “Jamaica Tourism Cares” on their donations. For more information, please click here.

“In Jamaica, we are deeply grateful for the outpouring of global donations and support we have received since the passage of Hurricane Melissa,” said Donovan White, Director of Tourism for Jamaica Tourist Board.

“However, the journey to recovery is far from over. There are regions that have resumed operations, but there are areas of our country that need help. We are committed to supporting their efforts to rebuild stronger and create a brighter future for our communities in need.”

‘’We encourage travellers, partners, and organizations worldwide to support Jamaica through donations and by booking travel and joining us on island,” said Angella Bennett, Regional Director in Canada for the Jamaica Tourist Board. “We want to reassure visitors, those who had trips planned or were planning to come visit us soon, that Jamaica is safe, prepared and eager to accept guests. We look forward to welcoming you!”

Looking Ahead:

The Jamaica Tourist Board is also proud to announce a special benefit concert in support of recovery efforts following Hurricane Melissa. Harmonies of Hope aims to ignite an inspiring evening that will bring together music, community, and passion to assist those affected by the hurricane. 

The concert will be hosted on Wednesday, December 10 at MERIDIAN PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE, located at 5040 Yonge St, North York, ON M2N 6R8. Doors open at 6:00PM and the show begins at 7:00PM, followed by a reception. Tickets are available here.