Jamaican LGBTQ+ group launches Hurricane Melissa relief fund

A leading Jamaican LGBTQ+ rights organisation has launched an emergency relief fund to support members of the community affected by the catastrophic Hurricane Melissa, which struck the island last week with winds of up to 185 mph.

The Equality for All Foundation Jamaica announced that it is raising funds through the Rustin Fund for Global Equality to provide emergency housing, transportation, essential supplies, and rebuilding assistance for LGBTQ Jamaicans most in need. The initiative comes amid widespread devastation across western Jamaica, where the Category 5 storm made landfall on 28 October, killing at least 28 people and displacing thousands.

“Hurricane Melissa has caused extensive devastation across Jamaica, leaving many families and communities struggling to recover,” the organisation said in a statement. “Among those affected are LGBTQI+ Jamaicans, many of whom already experience homelessness, displacement, and further barriers to accessing public relief and safe shelter due to fear or past experiences of discrimination.”

The group highlighted that government-led relief efforts often fail to reach LGBTQ+ individuals, as many avoid emergency shelters and aid services due to stigma and safety concerns. According to the Rustin Fund, more than one in three LGBTQ+ Jamaicans has experienced homelessness or displacement, making them particularly vulnerable during disasters.

The relief fund aims to bridge this gap by ensuring that those excluded from mainstream support receive urgent assistance. Donations will go towards temporary accommodation, food, clean water, hygiene products, and rebuilding efforts for affected households.

Hurricane Melissa, described as one of the most powerful storms in Jamaica’s modern history, also caused severe damage in Haiti, the Dominican Republic, and eastern Cuba. Jamaica remains under a state of emergency as authorities work to restore power and water to large parts of the island.