With an estimated $7 billion in damage and at least 70,000 people left homeless by Hurricane Dorian in the Bahamas, a major effort to help storm victims takes place this weekend.
The “Caribbean Day of Giving” happens all day Saturday across the United States. Supporters will gather to show their support for those in need. The day includes a “mediathon” featured on radio stations including Irie Jam Radio 93.5. One Caribbean Television is also a media partner supporting Saturday’s fundraising activities. The goal is to raise money through donations, which will assist displaced residents of the islands.
In Brooklyn, New York, activities include a large number of musicians and entertainment artists at the Flatbush Caton Market. Activities and performances will be live-streamed at www.caribbeandayofgiving.com. One Caribbean Television will air special reports from New York with Melissa Noel Saturday afternoon and evening.
Money raised during the mediathon goes to the Caribbean Day of Giving charity partners. The organizations include the Bahamian American Association Inc. in New York City, American Foundation of the University of the West Indies and the Sandals Foundation. Funds will be utilized by the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency and other groups providing emergency relief on the ground.
Donations are accepted through www.caribbeandayofgiving.com or by texting CDOG to 707070.
“The Bahamas is my home! We are open for business!” said Bahamian cultural ambassador Julien Believe in a news release. “We are very resilient people…we appreciate the outpouring of love and support; it means a whole lot to us. We are humbled by all the efforts to help us rebuild.”
Social media will also play a role during the mediathon. Those who wish to contribute will find information by checking www.facebook.com/caribbeandayofgiving or on Twitter by using @caridayofgiving and on Instagram @caribDayofGiving.
Caribbean Day of Giving is organized by a Caribbean Diaspora Disaster Relief Coalition.
