Volunteer Registry Launched to Support Hurricane Melissa Recovery

A National Registry of Volunteers has been launched to provide coordinated support for those affected by Hurricane Melissa.

The announcement was made by Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, Hon. Olivia Grange, during a special press briefing at Jamaica House in Kingston on Monday (Nov. 3).

She explained that the registry, which is available on the Support Jamaica portal, is designed to organise volunteer efforts efficiently.

“We know that there are still many, many Jamaicans who want to help, who want to be a part of this national effort,” she said, noting that the registry provides a way for persons to get involved.

The registry allows participants to indicate their availability, skills, and the type of help they can provide, whether in food distribution, shelter operations, medical support, cleanup, counselling, transportation, or administrative tasks.

“Whatever your skills are, however you want to help, just tell us when you sign up to the registry,” Minister Grange said.

She urged both local and international volunteers, including Jamaicans in the diaspora, to register.

Volunteers will be contacted, briefed, equipped, and deployed in a coordinated manner. Non-government organisations (NGOs) are also invited to join to avoid duplication and ensure that help reaches those in need.

Minister Grange called on individuals, companies, churches, youth groups, clubs, and associations to contribute their time, skills, and compassion to the national recovery process.
She noted that rebuilding the country will require the combined efforts of all Jamaicans, highlighting the need for unity and support.

“We face a long and challenging road ahead, but we will recover and rebuild stronger by supporting those who have been affected and working together. We thank and applaud everyone who has been doing something to help. Your contribution, even if you think it’s small and insignificant, will make a tremendous difference. We have been taught that every act of kindness, care, and compassion makes a difference,” she said.

To register, persons may visit supportjamaica.gov.jm, click on ‘Volunteer for Hurricane Melissa’ and complete the simple registration form to join the coordinated effort.