Hello everyone, my name is Shanika Kelly.

In the devastating aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, hundreds of families in my community and neighbouring areas have been displaced and are in urgent need of relief. Homes, schools, and businesses have been destroyed; roads and farmlands washed away; and many are struggling to meet even their most basic needs.

My home community of Bronte, Westmoreland, Jamaica, was hit especially hard. Many families have lost everything — shelter, food, clothing, and access to clean water. Sadly, we have also lost some loved ones. Our area is often among the last to receive government assistance, which makes community-driven support efforts like this one absolutely vital.

I am organizing a relief drive to collect essential goods and supplies that will be shipped directly to those affected as soon as transportation routes reopen.

SUPPLIES NEEDED

Your contributions will go directly to families and individuals rebuilding their lives. Every item, big or small, makes a real difference.

FOOD & WATER

Many families are still without access to safe food and clean drinking water.

• Canned goods (tuna, beans, vegetables, soups, meats)

• Dry goods (rice, pasta, flour, oats, cornmeal, cereals)

• Bottled water and water purification tablets

• Ready-to-eat meals (MREs, instant noodles, etc.)

• Cooking oil, powdered milk, sugar, salt, and seasonings

• Energy bars and snacks for children

CLOTHING & BEDDING

Countless families lost all personal belongings to flooding and wind damage.

• Clean, gently used or new clothing (for men, women, and children)

• Blankets, sheets, sleeping bags, and towels

• Footwear — shoes, sandals, and slippers

• Raincoats, jackets, and hats for protection from ongoing weather

HYGIENE & PERSONAL CARE ITEMS

Maintaining basic hygiene is critical to prevent illness and infection in disaster zones.

• Soap, shampoo, and body wash

• Toothbrushes, toothpaste, and mouthwash

• Sanitary pads, tampons, and adult diapers

• Deodorant, wipes, and hand sanitizer

• Laundry detergent (travel-sized or small packages)

BABY SUPPLIES

Children and infants are among the most vulnerable after disasters.

• Diapers (all sizes)

• Baby formula and bottles

• Baby food (sealed jars/pouches)

• Baby wipes, rash creams, and baby shampoo

• Small blankets, bibs, and clothing

MEDICAL & FIRST-AID SUPPLIES

Basic medical items are in short supply and essential for safety.

• First-aid kits (bandages, antiseptic wipes, gauze, tape)

• Over-the-counter pain relief (acetaminophen, ibuprofen)

• Thermometers

• Hand sanitizer and disinfectant sprays

• Medical gloves and masks

HOUSEHOLD & EMERGENCY ITEMS

Many areas are still without electricity and basic infrastructure.

• Flashlights and batteries

• Candles and matches

• Portable phone chargers or power banks

• Plastic tarps and ropes for temporary shelter

• Buckets and cleaning supplies

• Insect repellent and sunscreen

DROP-OFF LOCATIONS

• 2255 Weston Road, Toronto

• 73 Park Ave, St. Catharines

Pick-up available upon request — please message or call to arrange.

❤️ HOW YOU CAN HELP

If you can’t donate physical items, monetary contributions toward shipping and logistics are also welcome. Every dollar helps us move supplies faster to those who need them most.

Together, we can bring relief, hope, and comfort to those whose lives have been turned upside down by Hurricane Melissa. Thank you for your compassion, generosity, and willingness to stand with Jamaica during this difficult time.

— With gratitude,

Shanika Kelly

Thank you❤❤❤❤