A Norfolk County farm owner is rallying the community to support families in Jamaica devastated by Hurricane Melissa.
Peter VanBerlo, owner of Berlo’s Best, is spearheading a local hurricane relief effort, with support from businesses and other organizations.
That was Leanne Arnall, Manager of Community Development with the Catholic Cross-Cultural Services York Region (CCSYR).
She goes over what is taking place this week.
When it comes to what can be donated – Arnall goes over what they are looking for.
Arnall stressed that no clothing or expired items should be donated.
There is only so much space, and when it comes to clothes, Arnall said she is sure other organizations will step in to fill this need.
While many workers went back home to Jamaica after the summer season, there are several workers still in Norfolk who had to watch from far away, wondering what they would be returning to.
She stressed how important it is for Norfolk to come together.
She believes that despite this happening so far away on the map, it really is a situation we should look at as if it is happening in our own backyard.
Donations can be dropped off at:
CCSYR Simcoe Satellite Office (191 Queensway West, lower level) — Tuesday to Friday, 10:30 a.m.–5 p.m.
VanBerlo Farm (325 Concession 13, Townsend) — during business hours.
Arnall added that while large contributions are appreciated, small gestures go a long way too and that even a case of juice boxes or a pack of hygiene products makes a difference when people have lost everything.
For more information or donation ideas, contact Leanne Arnall at 519-277-1102.