Media Release
For Immediate Release
Canada–Caribbean Institute Urges Swift Canadian Relief Response Following Hurricane Melissa
Toronto, Canada — October 29, 2025
The Canada–Caribbean Institute (CCI) expresses deep concern for the people of Jamaica, Haiti, Cuba and other Caribbean nations devastated by Hurricane Melissa. As communities face the destruction of homes, infrastructure, and livelihoods, the Institute stands in solidarity with those affected and calls for immediate international support.
Speaking on behalf of CCI’s member institutions, Dr. Rhonda McEwen, President of Victoria University in the University of Toronto and Co-Chair of the CCI, emphasized the urgency of Canada’s response:
“We share the anguish of Jamaicans worldwide who are mobilizing to support their homeland. Canada has long benefitted from the contributions of Caribbean communities. Now is the time to reciprocate with decisive action. The Canada–Caribbean Institute urges the Government of Canada to swiftly deploy relief resources to Jamaica and the region. Canada’s proud history of standing with Caribbean nations in times of crisis must continue with urgency and compassion. My Co-Chair, Dr. Lincoln Edwards, President of Northern Caribbean University in Jamaica, is currently in Jamaica and witnessing firsthand the scale of devastation. His presence underscores the immediacy of the need and the importance of Canada’s support.”
To help Canadians understand the scale of the disaster, it is important to note that Hurricane Ian, a Category 4 storm, caused an estimated $112.9 billion USD in damages in 2022, making it the third-costliest U.S. tropical cyclone on record. Hurricane Melissa is a Category 5, and early reports suggest devastation on a comparable or greater scale.
The Government of Jamaica has declared the island a disaster zone. Recovery will require both emergency humanitarian aid—clean water, medical support, temporary shelter—and sustained investment in resilient infrastructure and disaster preparedness.
CCI recommends the Government of Canada consider the full scope of its disaster response capabilities, including:
- Rapid funding to the Canadian Red Cross and other international partners, with matching contributions and deployment of Canadian experts.
- Military support, including airlift of relief supplies (water purification systems, medical equipment, pharmaceuticals, building materials), mobilization of the Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART), and use of naval and air assets for regional distribution.
- Evacuation coordination with commercial airlines to assist Canadian tourists in affected areas.
CCI member institutions—leading universities and research organizations across Canada and the Caribbean—stand ready to support.
Dr. McEwen added: “This is a moment for Canada to reaffirm its commitment to the deep ties that bind our nations. By acting quickly, we can save lives, ease suffering, and help communities rebuild stronger.”
Many students, faculty, and staff within CCI institutions have direct family connections to the affected areas. Their concern is urgent and personal. The Institute calls on the Government of Canada to work closely with Caribbean governments, regional bodies, and international partners to ensure aid reaches those most in need—without delay.
CCI also encourages its community to donate to trusted charities and relief organizations to support the response. These include:
In addition, Jamaica has launched an official relief portal: https://supportjamaica.gov.jm, which includes verified shelters, donation tools, and real-time updates.
About the Canada–Caribbean Institute
The Canada–Caribbean Institute is a collaborative initiative of universities and colleges from Canada and the Caribbean, dedicated to strengthening academic, cultural, and policy linkages. Through research, dialogue, and partnership, the Institute advances mutual understanding and shared prosperity across the region. Learn more at Colleges and Universities collaborating to advance the Canada-Caribbean Relationship.
Media Contact:
Robert Ready
Executive Director
Canada–Caribbean Institute
613 850-7897 | robertready@live.ca