Speaking to a town hall meting in Washington DC last Monday evening to more than 500 Jamaicans in the Diaspora, Jamaica’s Ambassador to the United States (US), (Retired) Major General Antony Anderson, said the Embassy of Jamaica in Washington DC has been designated as the lead mission for disaster coordination working directly with the Jamaican Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) to ensure accurate information and effective response measures.
The Ambassador outlined that drop-off points across major diaspora hubs are being consolidated for more efficient collection and delivery of supplies to Jamaica. He stressed the importance of balanced distribution, noting that lessons from past disasters have informed a more targeted approach.
“We know that diaspora members are very concerned about what is occurring in Jamaica,” Anderson told the attendees. “There is a certain level of nervousness among people in the Diaspora, and this meeting was necessary so that we can organize ourselves to support Jamaica in what could be a special time of need.
To streamline coordination, the Embassy has launched a dedicated email address – disasterresponse@jamaqqicaaembassy.org – where Jamaicans abroad can send inquiries or pledge donations. A hotline is also being established for real-time updates and assistance.
“We have to ensure that the supplies sent into Jamaica go into the right hands for distribution,” Anderson emphasized. “Those most affected will receive supplies. We do not want an oversupply of some items and a shortage of others,” he added.
Ambassador Anderson announced that the US Department of State has already deployed a pre-arrival team to Jamaica, with additional support teams on standby. Several countries, NGOs, and partner organizations have pledged support.
To bolster the response efforts, the Embassy is compiling a list of 501 (c) (3) non-profit organizations that Diaspora members can work through to ensure accountability. A volunteer database is being developed to identify individuals with specialized skills who may be deployed to Jamaica during the recovery phase.
“The first few days after the hurricane hits are crucial,” Anderson commented. “We will be monitoring the situation closely to determine where the help is most needed,” he emphasized.
While customs fees will not be universally waived, the Ambassador clarified that special accommodation will be made for shipments certified as disaster relief supplies.
Ambassador Anderson closed the meeting by affirming that regular updates will be held to keep the Diaspora informed as Jamaica moves into the recovery phase.
“It is going to be a heck of a recovery effort,” he said. “We will need all hands at work to assist in rebuilding and supporting those most affected.”
