City of Hollywood launches Hurricane Melissa relief effort to collect essential supplies for affected Caribbean nations

Hollywood, Florida – As Hurricane Melissa strengthens into one of the most powerful hurricanes ever recorded in the Atlantic, the City of Hollywood is mobilizing a coordinated relief effort to provide critical support to affected Caribbean nations, including Jamaica. The hurricane is forecast to bring severe winds, torrential rain, and widespread damage, prompting urgent calls for assistance from communities across South Florida.

In response, the City of Hollywood is asking residents and local businesses to donate essential supplies that can be quickly shipped to impacted areas once conditions allow. Requested items include tarps, bottled water, flashlights, sleeping bags, batteries, trash bags, work gloves, boots, non-perishable food, personal care products, and first aid kits. Organizers note that used clothing and linens will not be accepted, as the focus is on new, durable, and immediately usable items.

“These are challenging times for our Caribbean neighbors, and we want to do everything possible to support them,” said a City of Hollywood spokesperson. “We encourage residents to contribute to this relief effort and help provide the supplies that are most needed during and after the storm.”

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Supplies can be dropped off daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM at multiple City of Hollywood Fire Rescue stations, providing convenient locations for residents across the area. Locations include:

• Station 5 – 1819 N. 21st Avenue, Hollywood, FL 33020
• Station 31 – 3401 Hollywood Boulevard, Hollywood, FL 33021
• Station 40 – 707 S. Ocean Drive, Hollywood, FL 33019
• Station 45 – 1810 N. 64th Avenue, Hollywood, FL 33021
• Station 74 – 2741 Stirling Road, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312
• Station 105 – 1511 S. Federal Highway, Hollywood, FL 33020

The initiative underscores Hollywood’s commitment to regional solidarity and humanitarian assistance, emphasizing the importance of community involvement during natural disasters. By collecting and shipping essential items, the city hopes to alleviate the immediate challenges faced by families and communities in the Caribbean as Hurricane Melissa makes landfall.

Residents have already begun responding, dropping off supplies and coordinating with local fire stations to ensure that donations are organized and ready for transport. City officials are urging the public to act quickly, as hurricane conditions may limit shipping opportunities, making early preparation critical.

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“The City of Hollywood remains committed to supporting our Caribbean neighbors during their time of need,” said the spokesperson. “We thank you for your donation.”

This relief effort reflects a growing network of community-driven initiatives in South Florida aimed at responding to hurricanes and other natural disasters. With the Caribbean facing potentially catastrophic impacts, timely contributions from local residents and businesses will play a vital role in helping families recover and rebuild.

For more information, residents are encouraged to contact their local fire stations or visit the City of Hollywood’s official channels for updates on donation guidelines, collection schedules, and shipping timelines. The city continues to emphasize that every donation, no matter the size, can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by Hurricane Melissa.