A Week After The Hurricane

A week after Hurricane Melissa struck the Caribbean, the scale of destruction continues to unfold. According to independent reports, this storm — the strongest ever to make landfall in Jamaica and one of the most powerful Atlantic hurricanes in 25 years — left behind heartbreaking devastation.

We give not because God is in control, but because God is in charge —leading us to act with compassion and faith.

Melissa made landfall in southwestern Jamaica as a Category 5 hurricane, with winds reaching 185 mph. It then tore through Cuba, Haiti, the Bahamas, and Bermuda, leaving homes destroyed, power grids crippled, and communities isolated. The loss of life has been profound — with at least 67 people confirmed dead and many more unaccounted for. Damage estimates across the region now exceed $50 billion.

• In Jamaica, 90% of homes in the town of Black River were damaged or destroyed.

• Cuba saw more than 3 million people exposed to life-threatening conditions.

• Haiti, already facing political turmoil, now faces new suffering as floods and landslides uprooted families and livelihoods.

• The Bahamas continue to face massive flooding and displacement.

  
  

Yet, even amid the wreckage, hope remains. As Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness said, “We will rebuild stronger and wiser.” Aid efforts are underway, and our Presbyterian family is already responding through Presbyterian Disaster Assistance (PDA) — offering food, shelter, medical care, and long-term rebuilding support.

Reflecting and Revealing the Unselfish Love of Christ

At First Presbyterian Church of Eustis, we believe that generosity is not about fixing what is broken but about reflecting and revealing the unselfish love of Jesus Christ in all we do.

We do not give because we must —we give because we can.We give because God empowers us,and God multiplies that which is givento reveal the kingdom of heaven on earth.

How You Can Help

Beginning now and throughout the month of November, we will collect financial donations for those affected by Hurricane Melissa. Every dollar designated to “PDA Hurricane Melissa” will be sent directly to Presbyterian Disaster Assistance, ensuring that 100% of your gift supports relief and rebuilding in the Caribbean.

You can give:

• By check or cash through the church — please note “PDA Hurricane Melissa” on the memo line. We will forward a 100% of your donations on your behalf.

• By phone: Call 800-872-3283 to give directly. DR000166 Disaster Relief--Caribbean

• By mail: Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) P.O. Box 643700Pittsburgh, PA 15264-3700 with the designation... DR000166 Disaster Relief--Caribbean

In times like this, generosity becomes more than an act — it becomes a testimony. Let our giving reflect our faith, our hope, and our shared humanity.For when we give, we participate in God’s ongoing work of renewal and restoration — and we remind the world that love is stronger than any storm.

“Let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” — Galatians 6:9