![](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Trending_Video_TampaBay28.png\"\/)
<\/p>\n
“I know how important it is.”<\/p>\n
TAMPA, Fla. \u2014 After Hurricane Melissa left widespread devastation across Jamaica, the Tampa Bay community has rallied to provide relief.<\/p>\n
The Caribbean American National Development Organization has set up a collection center at the Jerk Hut restaurant on Fowler Avenue. The donation drive began Thursday and has already filled one 20-foot shipping container, with efforts underway to fill a second.<\/p>\n
Organizers are asking for items such as solar devices, batteries, radios, non-perishable food, and hygiene products. They are not collecting water bottles, clothes, or shoes, as other organizations are already providing those.<\/p>\n
Francis Joseph, with the Caribbean American National Development Organization, said the damage is severe. \u201cThere\u2019s a lot of hospitals down, homes destroyed, and infrastructure out. We are working hard to provide what support we can from Tampa Bay.\u201d<\/p>\n
For the next 30 days, the Jamaican government has waived taxes on goods shipped to the island, giving the group a limited window to send aid.<\/p>\n
In Riverview, the Love First Christian Center launched its own donation drive to fly supplies directly to Jamaica. They are collecting water bottles, canned goods, clothes, and other essentials.<\/p>\n
Pastor Jomo Cousins said living in Florida brings a special understanding of storm impacts. \u201cOn the island, getting help is much harder. For me, it\u2019s about figuring out how to help and be part of a solution.\u201d<\/p>\n
For details on how to donate to these relief efforts, click here<\/a>. <\/p>\n “I know how important it is.”<\/p>\n<\/p>\n