The United States government has unveiled an initial humanitarian aid package totaling $24 million to support Caribbean countries devastated by Hurricane Melissa. This aid targets nations like Jamaica, Haiti, the Bahamas, and Cuba, aiming to facilitate recovery efforts after the extensive damage inflicted by the storm.
According to a statement from the U.S. Department of State, the allocated funds are intended to provide essential resources such as shelter, clean water, sanitation, food, emergency medical care, and hygiene supplies to the affected communities.
The statement specifies that Secretary of State Marco Rubio has authorized the distribution of these resources as follows: $12 million for Jamaica, $8.5 million for Haiti, $3 million for the Cuban populace, and $500,000 for the Bahamas.
Disaster Response and Coordination
The Department of State noted that a Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART) is actively stationed in Jamaica, assessing the extent of the damage and determining future needs across the region.
Official reports indicate that Hurricane Melissa, classified as a Category 5 storm, made landfall on October 28 in New Hope, Jamaica, with sustained winds of 185 miles per hour. The hurricane caused widespread flooding, hospital evacuations, and significant loss of life in Jamaica, Haiti, the Dominican Republic, Cuba, the Bahamas, and the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Immediate U.S. Action and Recommendations
President Donald Trump has authorized an immediate response from the United States, directing the Department of State to collaborate with United Nations agencies, non-governmental organizations, and local governments to deliver aid. This includes food supplies, medical kits, hygiene products, temporary shelters, and support for search and rescue operations.
The document further advises that monetary donations to established relief agencies are the "most effective and rapid" means of aiding recovery efforts, as cash contributions enable the local purchase of necessary supplies, minimizing transportation time and costs.
Moreover, it cautions the public against potential scams and fraudulent campaigns that often emerge following natural disasters, urging verification of an organization's legitimacy before donating.
The United States also emphasized that its embassies in the affected countries, including the one in Havana, have maintained open communication channels to assist with the consular emergencies of American citizens.
Key Insights on U.S. Humanitarian Aid for Hurricane Melissa
How much aid is allocated to each country affected by Hurricane Melissa?
The U.S. has allocated $12 million to Jamaica, $8.5 million to Haiti, $3 million to Cuba, and $500,000 to the Bahamas.
What types of assistance are included in the U.S. aid package?
The aid package includes shelter, clean water, sanitation, food, emergency medical care, hygiene supplies, and support for search and rescue operations.
What should donors consider before contributing to disaster relief efforts?
Donors are advised to make monetary contributions to established relief agencies to ensure the most effective and rapid support, and to verify the legitimacy of these organizations to avoid scams.