Travel companies are donating to the hurricane relief efforts in Jamaica, which took a direct hit from Hurricane Melissa on Oct. 28
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Carnival Corp., the Micky and Madeleine Arison Family Foundation and the Miami Heat pro basketball team have donated $1 million to Hurricane Melissa relief efforts.
Micky Arison is Carnival Corp.'s chairman and owner of the Miami Heat.
The donation supports Direct Relief, an organization deploying medical supplies to Jamaica, where the Category 5 hurricane made landfall on Oct. 28. So far, the organization has prepared 100 packs with first aid and triage supplies.
"We're sending thoughts of comfort and strength to our friends in Jamaica, whose warmth and hospitality have created unforgettable experiences for so many of our guests and crew," said Carnival Corp. CEO Josh Weinstein. "Our connection to Jamaica runs deep, and we need to support its communities now more than ever."
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The Sandals Foundation, the nonprofit arm of Sandals Resorts International, is leading critical relief efforts, providing immediate aid and supporting recovery operations. Every contribution goes directly toward emergency relief supplies, rebuilding efforts and vital community support across Jamaica.
Sandals Resorts International has eight resorts on Jamaica.
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Like parent company Carnival Corp., Holland America Line is channeling funds to Direct Relief. The cruise line is doing so through its fundraising 5K walk called On Deck for a Cause. Holland America Line said the next several walks will be dedicated to raising funds for Jamaica.
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American Airlines resumed Jamaica service on Thursday with two flights from Miami to Kingston. The first flight carried 1,600 pounds of relief supplies, including water, batteries and canned food. The second flight carried relief workers and additional supplies. Through Nov. 11, AAdvantage loyalty program members can earn 10 miles for every dollar donated to the American Red Cross with a minimum $25 donation.
On Oct. 31, American Airlines said it and AAdvantage members have raised about $1.2 million for the American Red Cross to support relief efforts for communities impacted by Hurricane Melissa. The funds will be used where they are needed most in coordination with global Red Cross partners, American said.
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The Rockhouse Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to children's education in Jamaica, has set up a recovery fund for the town of Savanna La Mar, Jamaica, where the foundation built an inclusive school designed for children with and without disabilities. The school suffered significant damage, as has the community of students, teachers and their families.
The foundation was created by the owners of the Rockhouse Hotel and the Skylark Negril Beach Resort, both in Negril, Jamaica, and Miss Lily's restaurant and bar, with locations in Negril, New York and Dubai.
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Internova Travel Group's Family Bonds Foundation is launching a special fundraiser to support the Sandals Foundation's relief and recovery efforts. The Family Bonds Foundation will match up to $15,000 in donations made.
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Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings announced a donation of up to $100,000 to support relief efforts. The cruise company will immediately donate $50,000 to the American Red Cross and will match up to an additional $50,000 in both employee and public contributions.
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Couples Resorts is focused on supporting its team members who were much less fortunate and working to rebuild after devastating loss. Through the Couples Resorts Community Disaster Relief Fund, 100% of donations are going directly to those most affected with over $300,000 already raised, including a $100,000 cash donation from Couples Resorts.
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Round Hill Hotel & Villas is preparing and serving meals to more than 500 people in Hanover Parish and is providing accommodations for employees and their families who have been displaced.