Canada’s foreign aid overseer unveiled a $7 million humanitarian assistance package for Caribbean nations affected by Hurricane Melissa. Randeep Sarai, the secretary of state for international development, revealed that $5 million will be allocated to urgent aid efforts by emergency response agencies and healthcare providers. Additionally, $2 million will be directed to the United Nations World Food Program to bolster food and supply distribution in Jamaica.
Sarai emphasized Canada’s readiness to supply relief materials from its emergency reserves through the Red Cross upon request from affected countries. The focus is on addressing immediate needs while planning for the long-term recovery phase following the devastating Category 5 storm that claimed numerous lives in Jamaica, Cuba, and Haiti.
Moreover, Ottawa has supported programs to enhance disaster resilience in countries like Jamaica through emergency preparedness and logistical support. Canada is also advocating for reforms in global institutions to enable Caribbean nations to invest in climate-resistant infrastructure.
The aid announcement was accompanied by a video presentation highlighting Canada’s commitment to assisting hurricane-impacted regions. Randeep Sarai, alongside Minister of Foreign Affairs Anita Anand, expressed solidarity with the Caribbean nations in their time of need.