“As communities across Illinois’ 7th Congressional District watch the devastation in Jamaica, my heart is with every family praying for loved ones back home. In moments like this, we’re reminded that compassion has no borders. I encourage everyone who’s able to support the relief efforts through trusted organizations working directly with communities on the ground.”
When disaster strikes, compassion must move faster than politics.
Following the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica — which has displaced families and left widespread damage — La Shawn K. Ford is calling on residents of the 7th Congressional District and across the Midwest to stand with the people of Jamaica during their time of need.
“Jamaica has always been a valued friend and partner to Illinois,” Ford said. “When families suffer — whether here or abroad — we stand together. Every act of kindness, every donation, every gesture of care matters.”
Hundreds of families with ties to Chicago and the surrounding suburbs have been affected by the storm, with some residents still working to return home safely.
La Shawn K. Ford, Candidate for Congress, expressed solidarity with those impacted and reaffirmed his commitment to stand with communities in times of crisis:
“Our hearts are with the people of Jamaica. So many families here in Chicago have roots that stretch back to the island — and when one of us is hurting, we all feel it. Now is the time to stand together, to lift each other up, and to help however we can.
Compassion has no borders, and our unity is our strength.”
Ford encouraged residents across the 7th Congressional District to support ongoing relief efforts and to come together in action, not just empathy:
“Our community has always shown up when others are in need. This is one of those moments. Every donation — every act of kindness — matters. I encourage everyone to give through trusted organizations that are making a real difference on the ground.”
How You Can Help
Current Drop-Off Location:
📍 Chatham Community Center
8800 S. Stony Island Avenue, Chicago, IL 60617
🕒 Drop-Off Hours:
Mon–Fri: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sat: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Sun: Closed
🤝 Organization:
Midwest Jamaica Corps (MIJAC) — a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization
Make a contribution
Please visit:
🌐 www.jamaicanconsulatechicago.org
🌐 www.mijac.org
Urgently Needed Items
(All items must be new or gently used and in good condition.)
Shelter & Emergency:
Tarpaulins (UV-treated, waterproof) · Flashlights · Lanterns & batteries (AA, AAA, C, D) · Sleeping mats/blankets · Ropes · Bungee cords
Water & Sanitation:
Buckets with lids · Collapsible water containers · Heavy-duty garbage bags · Hygiene kits · Water purification tablets
Debris Clearance & Tools:
Heavy-duty work gloves · Shovels · Spades · Wheelbarrows · Headlamps · Rain gear · Safety vests · Hard hats
Health & Medical:
First aid kits · Disposable gloves/masks · Hand sanitizer · Disinfectant · OTC medications (pain relievers, antihistamines) · Bandages · Gauze · Medical tape
Food & Nutrition:
Non-perishable food · Ready-to-eat meals · Canned goods (pull-top lids preferred) · Bottled water · Baby formula · Baby food
Agriculture & Recovery:
Seeds (tomato, cabbage, lettuce, peppers) · Garden tools (hoes, rakes, forks) · Machetes · Hand saws · Fertilizer · Potting soil
Note:
They cannot accept used clothing, perishable items, or expired products.
