Miami HEAT join in donating to Hurricane Melissa relief efforts

NBA team the Miami HEAT, the Micky & Madeleine Arison Family Foundation and Carnival Corporation & plc have partnered to make a US$1 million donation to assist with expected recovery efforts in Jamaica following Hurricane Melissa.

The donation was to Direct Relief, a humanitarian aid organisation with a stated mission to improve the health and lives of people affected by poverty or emergencies—without regard to politics, religion, or ability to pay.

“Our hearts go out to the people of Jamaica,” said Eric Woolworth, President of The HEAT Group’s Business Operations. “In Florida, we are all too familiar with the widespread devastation caused by a Category 5 storm. Direct Relief provides life-saving and ongoing assistance, which is so critical as residents begin the long road to rebuilding their communities.”

“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 Josh Weinstein, CEO of Carnival Corporation & plc. “Our connection to Jamaica runs deep, and we need to support its communities now more than ever. Donating to Direct Relief will help fund vital assistance to individuals and families whose lives have been upended by this devastating storm.”

A statement from the donors said, at Jamaica’s request, Direct Relief has prepared 100 field medic packs for deployment. Each pack contains first-aid and triage supplies for front-line responders. Direct Relief has also shared its full medical inventory list with Jamaica’s Ministry of Health and stands ready to dispatch additional medicines and supplies as needs are identified.

Among the medical items prepared for delivery are antibiotics, field medic backpacks, over-the-counter products, personal protective equipment, and medications to manage chronic diseases, as well as other critical items.

“Direct Relief is deeply grateful for the generosity of the Miami HEAT, the Micky & Madeleine Arison Family Foundation, and Carnival Corporation,” said Amy Weaver, CEO of Direct Relief.

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