Dade County Federal Credit Union (DCFCU) brought together local leaders, Caribbean representatives, and members of the diaspora on Tuesday during a $25,000 check presentation aimed at helping families in Jamaica recover from Hurricane Melissa.
The event, held at the credit union’s headquarters, underscored South Florida’s deep ties to the Caribbean and highlighted the role of community institutions in regional disaster response.
The presentation was led by George Joseph, President of DCFCU, who handed over the check alongside Sonless Martin, Chairman of Beacon for Change, Inc., the nonprofit coordinating relief efforts. They were joined by several officials, including Mayor Christi Fraga of Doral; Broward County Commissioner Alexandra Davis; Jamaica’s Deputy Consul General Lottalee Paisley; State Representative Marie Woodson; and Melonie Burke Simon, Community Affairs Liaison for Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava.
Together, the group emphasized the value of partnerships and the strength of the Caribbean diaspora in responding to crises.
“Credit unions were founded on people helping people,” Joseph said. “Our members and our neighbors have strong ties to Jamaica and the wider Caribbean. When Hurricane Melissa struck, we knew we had a responsibility to step forward and provide meaningful support.”
The donation will aid recovery programs across Jamaica, including assistance for displaced families, support for students and schools, and community rebuilding initiatives carried out with local partners.
“This donation is more than a dollar amount — it is a message of hope,” Martin said. “For years, Beacon for Change has been committed to uplifting children and communities across the Caribbean. Today, with the generous support of Dade County Federal Credit Union and the presence of our elected and consular partners, we are reminding the people of Jamaica that they are not alone.”
Officials in attendance noted the long-standing cultural and familial connections between South Florida and Jamaica. Mayor Fraga praised the coordinated effort, saying, “Our region is home to a vibrant Caribbean community. When one part of our extended family is hurting, we all feel it. This type of partnership between local leaders, financial institutions, and nonprofit organizations is exactly what community leadership looks like.”
Commissioner Davis pointed to the need for ongoing support as recovery continues. Representative Woodson also spoke to the moral obligation to assist neighboring communities in times of crisis. Deputy Consul General Paisley expressed gratitude on behalf of Jamaica, while Burke Simon reaffirmed Miami-Dade County’s commitment to supporting Caribbean partners throughout the rebuilding process.
As Jamaica continues its recovery, the collaboration between DCFCU and Beacon for Change stands as a testament to how local organizations can mobilize resources and goodwill to meet international needs.
Community members interested in supporting Hurricane Melissa relief efforts or learning more about Beacon for Change, Inc. are encouraged to contact the organization or Dade County Federal Credit Union for additional information.
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