COMMUNITIES across Jamaica, Haiti and Cuba are still struggling in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa.
Tameside Rotary has stepped in with a £1,200 donation to two frontline disaster-relief charities.
The money will be split between ShelterBox and Disaster Aid UK & Ireland – both of which are long-established partners of Rotary International and among the organisations now working to support communities cut off by flooding, storm damage and widespread power failures.
Jamaica, in particular, has suffered severe and unprecedented damage, with early estimates suggesting the cost of rebuilding may reach £5 billion. Homes have been flattened, major infrastructure has been left in ruins and thousands of families are currently without clean water, electricity or reliable ways to contact loved ones.
ShelterBox teams are delivering emergency shelter materials and essential supplies including tarpaulins, tools, thermal blankets, mosquito nets, solar lights and water carriers.
Disaster Aid UK & Ireland, meanwhile, is coordinating its response through the Disaster Aid International Group, deploying country partners who are already working alongside local Rotary teams.
Craig Roberts, Deputy Chairman of Disaster Aid UK & Ireland, said: “Disaster Aid UK & Ireland is grateful to Tameside Rotary for their contributions in deploying vital assistance to Jamaica in the wake of Hurricane Melissa. Our country partners are on the ground now, working alongside Rotary teams to assess needs and deliver life-saving aid.
“They are deploying heavy equipment operators, chainsaw teams and volunteer coordinators, supported by Starlink communications to reach even the most isolated areas. They will distribute water filters, solar lights, and battery packs – bringing safety, hope, and connection when it’s needed most.”
Tameside Rotary’s Past President and International Chair described the donation as a straightforward decision, given the expertise of the charities involved.
“When disasters are brought to our attention, as Rotarians, we always wonder how we can best help,” said Angela Robbins.
“We are fortunate that these two charities are already in existence and have such skill and experience, that to help, for us, is easy and we know with confidence that the money we send will be put to good use.”
She also passed on well-wishes to midwife Wendy Warrington, known locally for her earlier involvement in the MoM Incubator project.
“Wendy has been deployed and arrived in Kingston, Jamaica, just three days ago with the British ‘Emergency Response Team’ and we thank her for the updates on her invaluable work.”
Further information on the relief efforts – including how to donate – is available via Disaster Aid International and ShelterBox.