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Making Lives Better After the Storm
A Medical & Shelter Relief Initiative for Jamaica
Overview:
Hurricane Melissa has brought significant devastation to the western parishes of Jamaica, leaving thousands of families without stable housing, essential supplies, or access to consistent healthcare. Communities already facing chronic disparities are now experiencing even greater barriers to medications, wound care, and basic medical necessities.
To respond to this urgent need, Jamaican Lives Better has launched the “Making Lives Better After the Storm” initiative—an emergency medical relief effort designed to support vulnerable families and restore access to essential healthcare services.
Our Mission:
Jamaican Lives Better exists to bridge the gap between underserved communities and the healthcare and education resources they deserve. Through this initiative, we aim to ensure that every individual can regain access to the medications and basic medical care necessary for stability and recovery AND have basic shelter for safety and have a home for the Holidays
Local Contacts:
Mobile Medical Aid Units
Shani Mortley, MD
Medical Director – Affirm Ambulance Services
Have a Home for Christmas
Ms. Chinue Thompson
Chief Executive Officer – Walk Good Crafts and Souvenirs LTD
Current Needs:
We are expanding our relief efforts to also support individuals who have lost their homes and are currently without shelter, including those without basic materials such as zinc roofing. Monetary donations will help fund the purchase of building supplies to restore safe and stable living conditions.
We are seeking support to provide:
· Shelter: building materials (including zinc roofing) to provide temporary or permanent shelter
solutions for individuals who have lost their homes.
· Prescription Medications: For chronic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, asthma, and more.
· OTC Medications: Pain relievers, antihistamines, cough/cold medications, GI care, and more.
· First-Aid & Wound Care Supplies: Bandages, dressings, gloves, antiseptics, gauze, and kits.
· Basic Medical Supplies: Blood pressure cuffs, glucometers/test strips, thermometers, masks.
· Hygiene Essentials: Soap, sanitizer, oral care items, feminine care products.
Why This Matters:
• Entire families are now without shelter, with homes severely damaged or completely destroyed,
leaving them exposed to the elements and unsafe living conditions.
• Monetary donations make it possible to purchase zinc roofing, building materials, and other
essential supplies to restore safe shelter—an urgent need that cannot be filled through donated
goods alone.
• Many residents lost all personal items, including necessary medications.
• Interruptions in chronic disease therapy can lead to medical emergencies.
• Rural communities struggle with limited clinic access under normal conditions—after the storm,
these challenges have multiplied.
• Supporting this initiative directly improves health outcomes and restores dignity, safety, and hope.
How You Can Help:
Your support can make an immediate and life-changing impact. We are urgently requesting:
• Monetary Donations: The most flexible and impactful way to help. Funds will be used to purchase
building supplies—including zinc roofing—and provide temporary and permanent shelter solutions
for families who have lost their homes.
• Donations of Prescription & OTC Medications to help restore continuity of care for individuals with chronic illnesses and acute needs.
• Medical Supplies & First Aid Items to support wound care, infection prevention, and basic health
needs.
About Jamaican Lives Better
Jamaican Lives Better, Inc. (JLB) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving underserved communities in Jamaica and beyond. Our vision is to create a world where these communities have equitable access to resources and opportunities, empowering them to thrive. Through our various initiatives and events, we strive to make a positive impact on underserved communities.
Contact Us
Jamaican Lives Better
Email: info@jamaicanlivesbetter.org
