CEO Angela F. Williams on Hurricane Melissa and Jamaica Disaster Relief / Recovery

(October 29, 2025) -- In response to the devastation in Jamaica and other Caribbean islands following Hurricane Melissa, United Way Worldwide President and CEO Angela F. Williams released the following statement:

“When disaster hits, we are reminded that recovery and resilience are built one neighbor and one act of care at a time. My heart goes out to every person, every family, and every community member who must now navigate the long path toward recovery, following Hurricane Melissa. Truly, we are our neighbor’s keeper.  

United Way Jamaica is assessing needs on the island, supporting shelters, and coordinating with government and relief partners to get help to those who need it most. Their team, like so many Jamaicans, endured the storm with their families and emerged ready to serve their neighbors. United Way Turks and Caicos also is aiding communities on the ground while doing everything they can to protect themselves and their loved ones. These United Ways are the first responders without uniforms, and they represent the very best of what community can do.

Right now, the most effective way to help is by giving through trusted organizations. United Way’s Disaster Relief and Recovery Fund is directing donations to impacted communities, providing food, water, shelter, and other essentials that will help families survive today and rebuild tomorrow.
At United Way, we believe that true resilience means rebuilding together. United Way will be on the ground, arm-in-arm with all those directly impacted by Hurricane Melissa throughout the recovery process.”