CALIFORNIA, Md. — A local donation drive at The Jamaican Grill is underway to aid families in Jamaica affected by Hurricane Melissa. Organizer Crystal Boyd is inviting community members to drop off supplies at 23105 Three Notch Road, California, MD 20619.
“Together, we can restore hope,” Boyd said. “Every can of food, every bottle of water, and every act of kindness helps bring comfort and hope to those rebuilding their lives. Join me in making a difference, one donation at a time.”
The drive is seeking nonperishable food, bottled water, and other essential supplies. Donations can be delivered to The Jamaican Grill during business hours. Residents with questions or those wishing to volunteer may contact SpeedlyConsulting@gmail.com.
Hurricane Melissa struck Jamaica in late October as a Category 5 storm with sustained winds near 185 mph, tearing roofs from homes, flooding neighborhoods, and leaving widespread devastation across the island. Hardest hit were St. Elizabeth, Manchester, and Clarendon parishes, where communities were cut off by downed trees and washed-out roads. Power and water systems remain unstable in several areas.
As of Nov. 3, authorities in Jamaica have confirmed at least 32 deaths attributed to the storm, with additional unconfirmed fatalities still under investigation. Across the northern Caribbean, the total death toll has climbed to more than 50 lives lost, making Melissa one of the deadliest hurricanes to strike the region in years.
Boyd said the goal is to collect and route relief items quickly to impacted communities as recovery efforts continue. She encouraged residents to contribute what they can and spread the word about the drive.
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