TAMPA, Fla. — As Hurricane Beryl continues to devastate communities, a local restaurant in Tampa is looking to help by collecting supplies for those in need.
Jerk Hut Island Grille & Beach Club, a Jamaican restaurant in Tampa with several locations in the Bay Area, is asking for supplies to help people in the Caribbean recovering from the storm.
Supplies from diapers, water, clothing and even flashlights are vital as some people struggle to meet their basic needs, said Evie Larmond, who serves as president of the Caribbean Community Association.
"When one island is affected, all the islands are affected," Larmond said. "No island stands alone. We are all one Caribbean."
Larmond, who moved from Jamaica three decades ago, said people in the Caribbean look after each other.
She said herself and other organizers are determined to help however many people they can. Looking after each other is essential for people living in the Caribbean, she said.
"We thrive on community service. We thrive on working together, and playing together and living together and enjoying the moments together. We thrive on family life," Larmond said.
Officials in Jamaica said Monday that island residents will have to contend with food shortages after Beryl destroyed more than $6.4 million in crops and supporting infrastructure. Food, water and power are still lacking in several areas.
At least 11 people have been killed as Hurricane Beryl moved through the Caribbean to Texas. At least three people died in Texas as a result of the storm, officials said.
Efforts from Jerk Hut will benefit people recovering in nations like Jamaica and Grenada, including the Petite Martinique and Carriacou islands, where the hurricane first made landfall as a Category 4 storm.
Household items, hygienic items like diaper or wipes, non-perishable food and medical supplies are being accepted.
Donations may be dropped off at several locations:
- Jerk Hut (Tampa)
- Pam Roti & Caribbean Grocery
- Island Flavors & Tings
