Jamaica, November 3, 2025 – Ivonne Rodríguez-Wiewall, Executive Advisor to the Caribbean for Direct Relief, and Luis David Rodriguez, Emergency Response Manager for the Caribbean & Latin America, have arrived in Jamaica alongside their colleagues to coordinate upcoming relief shipments in response to Hurricane Melissa.

Charity’s Commitment to Aid

Direct Relief, recognized as the fourth largest charity in the United States, is spearheading efforts to address the urgent healthcare needs in the region. From their Santa Barbara, California warehouse, the organization has arranged for a chartered aircraft loaded with essential medication and medical supplies, set to arrive in Kingston on November 8th.

Mission to Improve Healthcare Access

Operating as a humanitarian non-profit organization, Direct Relief’s mission focuses on enhancing healthcare access for individuals impacted by poverty and disasters. Rodríguez-Wiewall highlighted the critical situation on the ground, noting that early assessments indicate a significant demand for assistance in Jamaica.

Health Risks Following the Hurricane

Rodríguez-Wiewall remarked, “From our experience, the primary cause of death is not the hurricane itself but the aftermath due to the lack of access to health care services.” This stark observation underscores the importance of timely medical support following natural disasters.

Financial Investments in Relief Efforts

In preparation for the relief operations, Direct Relief has allocated $250,000 specifically for logistics and preparedness efforts related to Hurricane Melissa. Additionally, the organization has $60 million worth of medications and medical supplies at the ready for deployment, ensuring that they can meet the pressing healthcare needs of affected communities.

As Direct Relief continues its mission, the organization remains committed to providing essential healthcare resources to those in need, emphasizing the importance of recovery in the aftermath of disaster.