By Jovani Davis
(Source: CNW)
South Florida is rallying to support its Caribbean neighbors as Hurricane Melissa rapidly intensifies into a powerful Category 5 storm and threatens to deliver a historic blow to Jamaica.
Forecasts show Melissa will maintain Category 5 strength when it makes landfall in Jamaica midday or early afternoon Tuesday. The storm is expected to unleash catastrophic winds, torrential rain, widespread flooding, and life-threatening storm surge. Residents and tourists have been urged to remain sheltered as the island braces for what officials warn could be the worst hurricane in Jamaica’s history. Haiti and other Caribbean islands in Melissa’s path are also expected to face severe impacts.
In Lauderhill, officials have launched a citywide relief drive and are urging residents, businesses, and community partners to donate essential supplies including blankets, non-perishable food, water, tarps, flashlights, personal care items, baby supplies, and first aid kits. All contributions will be shipped directly to relief partners aiding affected communities.
“This is a moment for us to stand hand in hand as a community — united in love, strength, and service,” said Mayor Denise D. Grant. “So many of our residents share a deep connection to the Caribbean, and we are ready to uplift and support our neighbors when they need it most.”
Lauderhill Donation Drop-Off Locations
- Lauderhill City Hall — 5581 W. Oakland Park Blvd., Lauderhill, FL 33313
- Veterans Park — 7600 NW 50th Street, Lauderhill, FL 33351
- John Mullins Park — 2000 NW 55th Avenue, Lauderhill, FL 33313
- Westwind Park — 4550 NW 82nd Avenue, Lauderhill, FL 33351
- Lauderhill Historical Museum — 1080 NW 47th Avenue, Lauderhill, FL 33313
- Joy’s Roti Delight — 1205 NW 40th Avenue, Lauderhill, FL 33313
Requested Items Include
- Blankets and Sheets (new)
- New Cots
- Yard Waste Bags
- Unexpired Canned and Non-Perishable Foods
- New Sleeping Bags
- New Work Gloves
- Solar Powered Lights/Flashlights
- Industrial Sponges
- Professional First Aid Kits
- New Tarps
- Personal Hygiene Kits
- New Wash Cloths
- Baby Diapers and Wipes
The Society for the Advancement of the Caribbean Diaspora (SACD) has also issued an appeal, focusing on Jamaica as it braces for severe impacts. SACD is partnering with nonprofit Food for the Poor to facilitate donations that will support families in the aftermath of the storm. Those wishing to contribute can find assistance options through Food for the Poor’s official website.
Miramar has additionally mobilized in preparation for potential devastation. The city is collecting tarps, water, flashlights, sleeping bags, batteries, trash bags, work gloves, boots, non-perishable food, personal care items, and first aid kits to ensure shipments are ready to go immediately after the storm passes. Officials emphasize that no used clothing or linen will be accepted.
Miramar 24/7 Drop-Off Sites
- Fire Station 19 – 6700 Miramar Parkway, Miramar, FL 33023
- Fire Station 70 – 9001 Miramar Parkway, Miramar, FL 33025
- Fire Station 84 – 14801 SW 27th Street, Miramar, FL 33027
- Fire Station 100 – 2800 SW 184th Avenue, Miramar, FL 33029
- Fire Station 107 – 11811 Miramar Parkway, Miramar, FL 33023
- Miramar Police Headquarters – 11765 City Hall Promenade, Miramar, FL 33025
As Melissa moves through the Caribbean in the coming days, officials say early generosity from the South Florida diaspora could bring much-needed relief once the storm clouds part.