Don't Forget the Islands! How to Help Hurricane Victims in the Caribbean
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If you’ve been following the news lately, you are aware of Hurricane Irma and Maria’s impact in the Caribbean leaving people without power, food, shelter, totally abandoned and even dead. Many of you know I am of Caribbean descent and the islands are still home to many people in my family. Through my travels, I’ve always shared the Caribbean as more than a beach destination or cruise stop. The Caribbean needs out help! If you’re looking to assist hurricane victims in the Caribbean, below are some organizations to donate to.
The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO)
The Caribbean Tourism Organization has set up the CTO Relief Fund for relief efforts in any of their 27-member countries affected by hurricanes and to assist other Caribbean countries affected by natural disasters. The goal is to send $100,000 directly to tourism officials in CTO member destinations affected by Hurricanes Irma AND Maria. In addition to raising funds, the CTO has been sharing news and updates from the tourism ministries of member countries via Instagram and their Storm Watch Center.
The Caribbean Tourism Recovery Fund
Many islands are dependent on travel and tourism as their main source of income. The Caribbean Tourism Recovery Fund is the travel industry’s response. This fund focuses on islands directly affected by the hurricanes by restoring tourist regions.
American University of Antigua (AUA)
The American University of Antigua College of Medicine (AUA) has created the Barbuda Relief Fund to give emergency supplies like food, water, and medicine to hurricane victims. Long-term recovery assistance will be to help rebuild Barbuda.
21 US Virgin Island Relief Fund
Organized by NBA superstar and USVI native Tim Duncan, this fund will match financial donations up to $1,000,000 for relief efforts in the US Virgin Islands. An additional $1,000,000 will be used for relief supplies for hurricane victims.
Other Ways to Assist
#RebuildSXM
#Rebuildsxm was founded due to the devastation caused by Hurricane Irma to the islands St.Maarten, Saba & St. Eustatius. Learn more on their official site.
Keep Traveling!
Traveling is one of the most effective ways to show your support. Bring clothes, medical supplies, and other goods to distribute to the people or churches within the affected areas.
Since hearing the news of Irma’s effect on the island of Barbuda, I’ve also shared ways to help in and out of the US via Facebook and Instagram. If there are any others, please share below, tag me online, and share/pin this post to help spread the word.
Thank you so much for this information. I will definitely be sharing. It’s so easy to forget about the devastation of the islands with so much going on.
I’m still praying for all those impacted by the devastation of these storms. It is so amazing that there are so many options to offer tangible help.
I just shared with several people asking what they could do. I feel like my hands are tied, but I am sending money/supplies/prayers every chance that I get. I know it’s not making a dent like I hope, but hopefully it’s making a difference.
THank you for this post. I am going to share this list!!
Thanks so much!
The devastation has been insane. I can’t imagine their pain right now. This is a good list, people give more in times like this but scammers also know that.
You and your family as well as the others who are being effect will continue to be in my prayers. I will continue to give as well as share you post on my social media sites. Stay blessed Queen and try to keep your spirits up!
This is a very important post. I think it is important to give back to places who have given to you. I know a lot of people enjoy the Caribbean each year. Now, they will know how to give back.
Very informative we tend to forget about other smaller countries. I’ll share this!!!