Itz Holistically Wholesome

On October 28, 2025, Hurricane Melissa made landfall in Jamaica, West Indies as a category 5 hurricane, the strongest storm recorded in history to hit the island. It was devastating and the damages unimaginable. In many communities houses, stores, and schools were destroyed leaving tens of thousand of people displaced. Other vital infrastructures were also destroyed including hospitals, and roads resulting in limited or no access to medical care and basic necessities such as food, clean water, and electricity.

It is estimated that at least 45 people lost their lives and over $2 billion worth of property damages cross the country.

Jamaica is my birth country. Land of wood and water, that’s how many refer to this little island. Growing up there, I can attest that it is indeed a beautiful place with some of the most hard-working, warm and vivacious people. Certainly, the country has its challenges but is definitely a piece of heaven on earth.

My heart aches for the many families rebuilding, grieving, and holding on to hope. Hope that this too shall pass, and that they will overcome, because Jamaicans are resilient people. However, they will need assistance from those of us who can help in whatever way we can. Whether through the donation of food, clothing, among other items, monetary gift, raising awareness or prayer.

Faith + Resilience

“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you,” Deuteronomy 31:6.

It is never easy to pick up the pieces and start over, especially when we have lost most, or even everything. In those moments, our minds naturally settle on the devastation, the confusion, and the hopelessness that surrounds us. Yet even then, one truth remains: as long as we have life, we have hope.

Though it may feel frightening and uncertain, things will get better. Restoration will come. What has been lost can be rebuilt. Most importantly, God is with us through it all, and He will make a way. This is why it is so important to keep the faith.

We may be tempted to question why something happened or wish that God had prevented it altogether but we can trust that the same God who calmed the storm promises to take care of us. His presence is steady, even when life feels shaken.

So when nature feels overwhelming and the world seems out of control, remember this: God is still in control.

Natural Remedies for Recovery

• Stress relief: Chamomile or lavender tea to calm the nervous system.
• Immune support: Vitamin C-rich foods (citrus, peppers) to strengthen the body during stressful times.
• Breath + grounding: Simple deep breathing or steam inhalation with eucalyptus to ease tension.
• Comfort food: Warm plant-based soups that nourish and soothe.
• Prayer: daily communion with God will renew your strength and hope to go on
• Laugh and share happy memories- Proverbs 22:17 states that, “A merry heart doeth good like a medicine, but a broken spirit drieth the bone. So distract your self with laughter and happy times when life weighs heavily.

Community Care: Helping Others

To you my fellow readers:

• Please pray, donate, or check in on loved ones affected.
• Remind them that healing is both physical and spiritual remedies for the body and compassion for the soul.

How to Support Hurricane Melissa Relief Efforts

1. Government of Jamaica Official Relief Efforts:

The Government of Jamaica coordinates official disaster relief and long-term recovery support. This is one of the most direct and reliable ways to ensure help reaches those most affected.

Website:
👉 Support Jamaica (Government Verified Site)
https://www.supportjamaica.gov.jm

Important: Only donate through sites ending in “.gov.jm” to avoid fraudulent pages.

2. World Central Kitchen (WCK):

World Central Kitchen is actively working on the ground, providing hot meals to families, first responders, and communities impacted by Hurricane Melissa.

Donate Here:
👉 https://donate.wck.org/campaign/740021/donate

WCK specializes in rapid-response food relief, ensuring that people receive immediate, comforting meals during crises.

3. Food For the Poor (FFTP):

Food for the Poor (FFTP) is one of Jamaica’s largest humanitarian organizations. They are distributing essential items such as food, hygiene supplies, tarps, and home-repair materials, while also supporting long-term rebuilding.

Hurricane Melissa Relief Fund:
👉 https://www.foodforthepoorja.org/hurricane-melissa-relief

Their efforts extend to restoring communities, supporting farmers and fisherfolk, and rebuilding damaged homes.

Remember Haiti and Cuba

While Jamaica has suffered greatly, Haiti and Cuba have also been hit hard by Hurricane Melissa. These countries face significant vulnerabilities and are in urgent need of humanitarian support.

Many global organizations assisting Jamaica, such as FFTP and WCK are also providing relief in these regions. Extending our prayers, support, and resources to them is equally important.

Tips for Donating Safely

Before giving to any relief effort:

• Verify all donation links (look for official websites).
• Avoid links shared through random social media pages.
• Check whether the organization is transparent about how funds are used.
• When in doubt, search for the organization’s official website manually.

Closing Blessing

“May those facing devastation find shelter, strength, and peace. May we, wherever we are, be part of their healing.” Whether through prayer, financial support, or simply sharing reliable information, each of us can play a part in restoring hope to those affected by Hurricane Melissa. Let’s stand with Jamaica, Haiti, Cuba, and all who are recovering from this devastating storm. Together, we can rebuild and restore.