Why it matters: A team of three organisers – Max Thomas, Isaac Turay, who's working tirelessly despite still recovering from a brain haemorrhage, and Sarah Tieck – is coordinating the collection of essential supplies to help restore life in the Jamaican hamlet, located in the northern hills of St. Elizabeth, one of Jamaica's largest parishes.
The big picture: Max, the founder of the Windrush Society in Ipswich, said the initiative emerged from community appetite, with people asking what could be done to help Jamaica.
"I wasn't sure how I could make a difference," he said. "Having the Ipswich Windrush Society, so many people were coming to me and asking, 'What am I doing for the hurricane in Jamaica?' The real question was 'What are WE doing?' I couldn't do it alone, so I knew it was time again to bring our community together for the rallying cry."
That's exactly what they've done.
The details: Donations can be dropped off at Unit 4 of the Buttermarket Centre, daily between 10:00 and 19:00, until 30 November.
Items needed include nappies, baby wipes, tools, toothpaste and toothbrushes, hand sanitiser, and sanitary pads and tampons.
What they're saying: Max said the response has been "fantastic," with the aid drive already generating more than £2,500 and many donations in its first week. "After one week, so many people have used their skills and contacts to make a positive difference. And more and more are now wanting to support our cause."
However, he highlighted challenges ahead. "Our biggest challenge is logistics and a safe passage to the destination, knowing there are a lot of problems after the container has been delivered through customs. Will we get safe passage? Will we be able to ensure that the people who need the items get them?"
The team were also keen to stress the invaluable support of the Buttermarket Centre, which continues to support community initiatives by providing free access to vacant units.
The bottom line: The Ipswich community is demonstrating the power of collective action in responding to an international crisis, though organisers need support to ensure donations reach those who need them most.
For more information, contact ipswichjamaicaaid@gmail.com or follow @ipswichjamaicaaid on Instagram.
