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The United Church of Christ (UCC) has called for donations to assist communities affected by Hurricane Melissa, which struck Jamaica as a Category 5 storm on October 28, 2025. The hurricane is noted as one of the most powerful storms ever recorded in the Atlantic Basin and is the strongest to make landfall in Jamaica since recordkeeping began.
According to UCC officials, Hurricane Melissa caused widespread devastation across Jamaica, leaving most of the island without power, telecommunications, or basic utilities as of October 30. Approximately 13,000 people are sheltering across the island and at least 34 fatalities have been reported—a figure expected to rise as search and rescue operations continue.
After impacting Jamaica, the hurricane made landfall on Cuba’s southeastern shore as a Category 3 storm. This resulted in significant flooding and wind damage in southeastern Cuba. In Haiti, authorities report that heavy winds and storm surges from Melissa caused severe flooding and landslides with at least 25 deaths confirmed so far.
The UCC’s appeal was issued by General Minister and President/CEO Rev. Karen Georgia Thompson along with the Disasters Ministries Team. They urged church members and supporters to contribute toward immediate relief efforts as well as long-term recovery needs in Jamaica and neighboring countries.
“In the coming days and weeks, the focus will shift to debris removal and restoration of access. Long-term support for reconstruction of homes, recovery of livelihoods, and restoration of community services will be essential in the days, months, and years ahead,” said the appeal.
The UCC is coordinating its response through partnerships with ACT Alliance’s Rapid Response Fund and Church World Service. Through Global Ministries, it is also working directly with partners in Jamaica, Cuba, and Haiti to provide timely assistance.
Donations collected will go into an International Emergency fund designated specifically for “Hurricane Melissa Response.” These funds will be used by local partners for both immediate relief efforts such as shelter provision, clean water supply, sanitation services, healthcare access, food distribution—and long-term rebuilding initiatives.
A prayer included in the appeal reads: “God of love and mercy who sustains us in all of life’s moments,
Be with those whose lives are forever altered by nature’s wrath, and those seeking peace amidst chaos.
Compel the kindness of strangers and friends alike as we surround Jamaica, Cuba, Haiti, and the Bahamas with solidarity and support in this moment of immense need.
We trust that through your community, our accompaniment may be made known.
May we all know your love and support. Amen.”
