This project will provide much needed disaster relief aid to the Bahamas. Every year thousands of tourists head to the beautiful country of the Bahamas to enjoy their beaches, hotels, and wonderful people. However, the average tourist does not realize the poverty that exists in the country. This poverty combined with an extremely powerful Category 5 storm like Hurricane Dorian has had terrible consequences.
Grand Bahamas and Abaco have been severely impacted by this life threatening Category 5 Hurricane. Hurricane Dorian is the strongest hurricane in modern records for the Bahamas. With a storm surge of 23 feet, the equivalent of a 2-story building, and wind gusts of 220mph, this hurricane has left the Bahamas in a state of emergency. Homes are damaged and even destroyed, fresh drinking water is scarce, the electricity grid is heavily damaged, and rebuilding materials are greatly needed.
We are partnering with local community leaders and small nonprofits to have a direct and measurable impact. Donations will be used to purchase necessary short and longer-term relief items such as food, water, baby items, and even building materials. All materials purchased will come from local vendors to further stimulate the local market rather than infuse the country with only donated goods.
This project has the potential to aid a unique area of the Caribbean that is home to a diverse population that have been there for generations. Our effort is centered around having a direct impact through smaller more focused projects that will yield tangible results. While we will be focusing on short term relief, there will be a special emphasis on working with community partners both private and public to support areas of greatest need as rebuilding continues.
