NEGRIL, Jamaica—Global animal protection charity Humane World for Animals (formerly Humane Society International) has launched an animal relief effort in Jamaica following the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa. The charity’s disaster response team is on the island country, bringing crucial supplies including animal food and medicines, pet carriers and equipment to support local shelters and communities struggling to care for their animals.
Gaia Bonini, director of international disaster response at Humane World for Animals who is leading the deployment in Jamaica, said: “The level of destruction here is almost beyond comprehension, and we know we’re only seeing a glimpse of the scale so far. There is extensive damage with many buildings blown away altogether, downed trees line the roads, power poles snapped in half and metal billboards completely twisted. Communities here will be impacted by the devastation for a long time. There is precious little infrastructure or aid to help the untold number of animals who have also been impacted. Many of the hardest hit areas remain inaccessible and out of contact, many animal shelters are cut off from food, power, clean water and basic supplies. We’re focused on helping animals in crisis and bringing comfort and reassurance to people in their hour of need, and we are honoured to be of service to the communities of Jamaica.”
One local shelter that Humane World for Animals has been able to reach is Negril Pup Rescue, which is caring for 90 animals. Our team provided their team with 200 pounds of food to see them through the coming days, as well as discussed practical steps for longer term recovery. Additionally, we provided food and supplies to Montego Bay Animal Haven and are working on assisting them with a larger supply drop later in the week.
Humane World for Animals responds to disasters around the world to assist animals and their communities in need. Our team works to reduce animal suffering and foster community resilience before, during and after disasters. For example, we’ve stepped in to help animals affected by volcanic eruptions in Guatemala; earthquakes in Nepal, Ecuador, Mexico and Türkiye; deadly storms in India, Haiti, Costa Rica, South Africa, Mozambique and the United States; and wildfires in Australia and Chile; as well as helping refugees and their pets fleeing the war in Ukraine. We also invest in long-term preparedness, mitigation and recovery to better empower communities before disasters strike.
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