I'm saddened to see the damage that has affected the people of Jamaica as a result of Hurricane Melissa. As of the time of this post, media outlets are reporting that a number of people have died, and thousands more have experienced damage to their homes and property. 

"Flooding from Hurricane Melissa killed at least 25 people in Haiti after the storm caused extensive damage in Jamaica, submerging entire communities underwater and destroying homes across the Caribbean island." - Via Time Magazine

At this point, I think we're all feeling tired and drained from what seems like one disaster after another. But this one really hits hard because of how it affects people I grew up with and consider family. For the past few years, I have taken vacations to some really amazing locations, and it makes me feel guilty knowing that Jamaica was the destination I had planned for my next trip. 

It's easy to travel to countries and bask in the beauty of their beaches and culture when the sun is shining bright, but unfortunately, it's even easier for people to turn a blind eye when people in these tourist destinations are in need of support. 

Images via Time Magazine

The owner (Errol) of a Jamaican restaurant in Arlington, called Jamaica Gates Caribbean Cuisine, is collecting perishable items that will be delivered to people on the ground who have been affected by the hurricane. I am taking proceeds from our profits and will be donating them to help support those who have been affected. 

Some of the items they are collecting are: 

• Canned Goods
• Corn Beef
• Baby Diapers
• Socks
• Baby Formula
• Toilet Paper
• Toothpaste
• Deodorant